In a tongue-tied baby, the frenulum, that thin line of tissue that connects the tongue to the bottom of the mouth, is short and tight. The baby's tongue can't extend past the bottom teeth or effectively compress the milk sinuses when breastfeeding.

There are mixed reports about the necessity of interventions for tongue-tied babies. Some sources say that babies with this condition generally grow out of it while others recognize that this condition can jeopardize breastfeeding success. Nipple pain and poor latch are the most common problems associated with tongue tie; however, poor infant weight gain resulting from feeding difficulties can put babies at risk. The clipping of the frenulum is very minor oral surgery. This simple office procedure takes just minutes and can even be performed by a dentist. Your baby can be back at your breast immediately and nursing will be much improved, but the benefits go beyond breastfeeding. Tongue tie can also interfere with speech development.