Welcoming a new baby into the family is a joyous occasion, but it can also come with its fair share of challenges, especially for new parents. One of the most frustrating experiences for parents is dealing with a baby who cries excessively or seems unable to find relief from discomfort. 

Colic, a condition characterized by prolonged periods of crying in infants, can be particularly distressing for both babies and their caregivers. 

However, what many parents may not realize is that colic could be linked to an often overlooked issue – tongue-tie or lip-tie in babies.

Understanding Colic

Colic is defined by episodes of excessive crying in babies, lasting for more than three hours a day, more than three days a week, and persisting for more than three weeks. While colic is a common issue affecting up to 40% of babies, it is not considered a normal part of infant development. Despite its prevalence, the exact cause of colic remains unknown, and treatment options are limited.

Exploring the Connection to Tongue-Ties and Lip-Ties

Tongue-tie, also known as ankyloglossia, occurs when the thin piece of tissue under the tongue (lingual frenulum) is too tight, restricting the movement of the tongue. Similarly, a lip-tie occurs when the piece of tissue connecting the upper lip to the gums (labial frenulum) is overly tight. 

While some tongue-ties are easily identified, others, known as posterior tongue-ties, may be less obvious and often go undetected.

Research suggests that tongue-ties and lip-ties may contribute to symptoms commonly associated with colic, including feeding difficulties, gassiness, fussiness, and excessive crying. Babies with tongue-ties or lip-ties may struggle to latch onto the breast or bottle properly, leading to inefficient feeding and the swallowing of excess air. This can result in discomfort, gassiness, and reflux symptoms, all of which may contribute to colic.

 

Recognizing the Signs

Identifying a tongue-tie or lip-tie in infants can be challenging, especially for parents and caregivers. However, there are several signs that may indicate a possible restriction:

• Painful nursing or feeding
• Slow weight gain
• Gassiness and fussiness
• Reflux or spitting up
• Clicking or smacking noises during feeding
• Difficulty latching onto the breast or bottle

 

If you suspect that your baby may have a tongue-tie or lip-tie, it’s essential to seek a proper assessment from a qualified healthcare provider experienced in diagnosing and treating these conditions.

Treatment Options

Fortunately, tongue-ties and lip-ties can often be effectively treated with a simple procedure known as a frenectomy. During a frenectomy, the tight tissue is carefully released, allowing for improved tongue and lip mobility. 

This can lead to more efficient feeding, reduced discomfort, and a decrease in symptoms associated with colic.

 

Comprehensive Tongue Tie Treatment

While colic can be a challenging and distressing experience for both babies and parents, it’s essential to consider all possible contributing factors, including tongue-ties and lip-ties. 

By addressing these underlying issues, parents may be able to alleviate their baby’s discomfort and reduce symptoms associated with colic. 

If you suspect that your baby may have a tongue-tie or lip-tie, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at Tongue Tie Institute for expert evaluation and personalized care. Your baby’s comfort and well-being are our top priorities, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.