Some newborns are born with a short or tight lingual frenulum, commonly known as a tongue-tie (ankyloglossia). This can interfere with breastfeeding or bottle feeding, and in some cases, may affect speech development later on.

When the tongue cannot move freely, it can cause pain during feeding, poor weight gain, and frustration for both the baby and the parents.

What Is a Tongue-Tie Release?

A tongue-tie release (frenotomy) is a simple and quick procedure in which the tight frenulum under the tongue is gently snipped, allowing the tongue to move more freely.
Our colleague Irena can perform this procedure either during a postnatal home visit or at our practice.

The procedure takes just a few seconds and is usually well tolerated by babies. Afterward, your baby can immediately return to the breast or bottle.

Why Choose a Tongue-Tie Release?

Parents may opt for a tongue-tie release if their baby is experiencing:

• Difficulty latching effectively to the breast

• Painful breastfeeding for the mother

• Inadequate weight gain

• Clicking sounds or frequent loss of suction during feeding

Releasing the tongue improves its mobility, making feeding easier and supporting the baby’s oral development.

What Does the Research Say?

Scientific studies show that a tight tongue-tie can contribute to breastfeeding difficulties, and that frenotomy often has a positive impact on feeding behavior.
Many mothers report less pain during feeding and a noticeable improvement in their baby’s latch and sucking technique after the procedure.

Although long-term effects on speech and oral function are still being studied, frenotomy is widely considered a safe and effective treatment for feeding-related tongue-tie.

Questions or Concerns?

If you’re unsure whether your baby has a tongue-tie or if you're concerned about feeding difficulties, please feel free to contact us for advice or to schedule an assessment.