As a new parent in India, you’re doing your best to make sure your baby feeds well and grows healthily. But sometimes, feeding challenges arise and one often overlooked reason is tongue tie, also known as ankyloglossia. If you’re wondering how to check tongue tie at home, this guide is for you.
What is Tongue Tie?
Tongue tie is a condition where a baby’s tongue movement is restricted due to a tight or short lingual frenulum the small band of tissue connecting the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth. While some babies with tongue tie feed without issues, others struggle to breastfeed, gain weight.
Why Should Indian Parents Be Aware?
In India, tongue tie is often underdiagnosed or brushed aside as a minor concern. Many parents are told that the baby will “grow out of it.” But the truth is if left untreated, tongue tie can impact breastfeeding, speech development, and even oral hygiene later on.
How to Check Tongue Tie at Home
You don’t need to be a doctor to spot early signs. Here are a few simple steps to check tongue tie at home:
Step 1: Look Under the Tongue
- Wash your hands and gently lift your baby’s tongue while they are calm or crying.
- Check if a tight band of tissue is tethering the tongue close to the floor of the mouth.
- If the tongue looks heart-shaped when lifted, it could be a sign.
Step 2: Observe Breastfeeding Behavior
Pay attention to these signs of tongue tie baby India commonly experience during feeding:
- Clicking sounds while sucking
- Shallow latch or frequent slipping off the breast
- Long feeding sessions or baby falling asleep at the breast often
- Nipple pain, damage, or bleeding for the mother
- Baby remains fussy or unsatisfied after feeds
Step 3: Watch Tongue Movements
- Can your baby stick their tongue out past the gums?
- Does the tongue lift fully to the roof of the mouth?
- Is there a visible dip in the tongue when crying?
Restricted movement could signal a tie.
Other Signs of Tongue Tie in Indian Babies
Beyond feeding, other indicators include:
- Poor weight gain despite regular feeding
- Gassy tummy or reflux symptoms
- Trouble transitioning to solids later
- Delayed speech sounds (for older infants or toddlers)
When to Seek Help
If you’re seeing several of these signs, it’s best to consult a IBCLC (International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant), or a Paediatric dentist. They can assess the severity and guide you on whether a frenotomy (a simple tongue tie release procedure) is needed.
Every baby is unique, and not all tongue ties require treatment. However, early identification can save you weeks or even months of feeding difficulties and frustration.
As Indian parents, it’s time we empower ourselves with knowledge. Don’t ignore feeding struggles your baby may be trying to tell you something.
Need Expert Support?
If you’re unsure how to check tongue tie at home or are dealing with feeding issues, I’m here to help. As a certified lactation consultant, I offer personalized guidance tailored for Indian families.