Is It a Tongue Tie? How to Tell If Your Baby or Toddler Needs a Frenectomy

Bottom line:

• A tongue or lip tie is a tight band of tissue that can restrict movement, often causing difficulties with feeding, speech, or even breathing.

• Common signs in babies include a poor latch, clicking noises while feeding, and slow weight gain. In toddlers, it may present as speech delays or picky eating.

• A gentle, quick procedure called a frenectomy can release the tie, providing immediate and lasting relief.

• A professional evaluation from a pediatric dentist is the best way to get an accurate diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan.

Last Updated: March 2026
Author & Credentials: Clinically reviewed by the pediatric dental team at Greeley Kids Dental, specializing in preventive and restorative care for children.

As a parent, there’s nothing more concerning than when your baby struggles to feed or your toddler seems frustrated. You’ve tried everything, but the fussiness continues. It’s natural to wonder if something more is going on, and for many families in Greeley, the answer could be a tongue or lip tie.

Knowing what signs to look for if your baby might have a lip or tongue tie and what to do about it can bring you peace of mind. At Greeley Kids Dental, we are here to provide clear answers and compassionate solutions.

Table of Contents:

• What is a Tongue or Lip Tie?

• Common Signs of an Infant Tongue Tie

• Recognizing Tongue Tie in Your Toddler

• How Greeley Kids Help

• Your Partner for Lifelong Dental Health

What Exactly Is a Tongue or Lip Tie?

A tongue tie (ankyloglossia) or lip tie happens when the small band of tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth (the lingual frenulum) or the upper lip to the gum line (the labial frenulum) is unusually short, thick, or tight.

This tissue, called a frenulum, is a normal part of the mouth. However, when it’s restrictive, it acts like an anchor, limiting the natural range of motion of the tongue or lip. This restriction can interfere with essential functions like eating and speaking. If you're concerned about a potential tongue and lip tie, an expert evaluation is the first step toward a solution.

Common Signs of a Tongue or Lip Tie in Your Baby

A restricted tongue or lip can cause a cascade of issues that affect both the baby and the nursing parent. The signs can be subtle, but they often point to a clear underlying problem.

Signs You Might Notice in Your Baby

• Difficulty latching or maintaining a seal on the breast or bottle.

• A clicking or smacking sound while feeding.

• Milk dribbling from the corners of their mouth.

• Extreme fussiness or pulling away from the breast/bottle frequently.

• Poor weight gain or short, frequent feedings that leave them tired but still hungry.

• Excessive gassiness, colic, or reflux from swallowing too much air.

• A tongue that looks notched or heart-shaped when they cry or try to stick it out.

• Inability to stick their tongue out past their gums.

Signs for the Breastfeeding Parent

The challenges of a tongue tie aren't limited to the baby. Breastfeeding parents often experience physical discomfort and stress. Common signs include:

• Significant nipple pain, cracking, or bleeding.

• Nipples that appear flattened or creased after a feeding.

• Recurrent clogged milk ducts or mastitis.

• A feeling of low milk supply or incomplete breast emptying.

Recognising a Tongue Tie in Your Toddler or Older Child

While often diagnosed in infancy, a tongue or lip tie can go unnoticed until a child is older. As they grow, the signs simply change.

Key signs in toddlers and older children include:

• Speech difficulties, especially with sounds like 't', 'd', 'l', 'n', and 's'.

• Picky eating, particularly avoiding foods with chewy textures like meat or certain vegetables.

• Trouble cleaning food off their teeth with their tongue.

• A significant gap between the upper front teeth, which is often related to a restrictive lip tie.

• Persistent mouth breathing or snoring due to improper tongue posture.

How We Help: The Gentle Frenectomy Solution at Greeley Kids Dental

If you recognize these signs in your child, the solution is often simpler and more gentle than you might imagine. A frenectomy is a quick, effective procedure that releases the restrictive tissue, and at Greeley Kids Dental, we specialize in providing this compassionate care.

Our Gentle Frenectomy Solution involves using modern laser technology to release the frenulum. This advanced technique ensures the procedure is comfortable, with minimal bleeding and a faster healing time. The benefits are often immediate, leading to more successful feedings, clearer speech development, and relief for both child and parent. Our goal is to make the entire process as stress-free as possible for you and your little one.

Your Partner for Lifelong Dental Health in Greeley

While this guide provides helpful information, a professional evaluation is the only way to get a definitive diagnosis. Waiting can lead to ongoing frustration and developmental hurdles, from feeding issues to common kids' dental issues down the road.

At Greeley Kids Dental, we are your family’s one-stop dental home, dedicated to setting your children on a path to a bright, healthy future. From their first tooth eruption to their teenage years, we offer comprehensive support for all aspects of infant oral care and beyond. You can find more answers to common questions on our FAQ page or explore more dental topics on our blog.

Schedule a Compassionate Consultation Today

If these signs sound familiar, don't spend another day worrying. The compassionate team at Greeley Kids Dental is here to provide clarity and gentle solutions for families in Greeley, Windsor, and Loveland.

Contact us today to schedule an expert evaluation for your child.