Understanding Tongue-Tie and Lip-Tie in Infants: A Chiropractic Perspective
What is Tongue-Tie and Lip-Tie?
Tongue-tie, or ankyloglossia, occurs when the tissue anchoring the tongue to the floor of the mouth is too tight or short, restricting movement and function. This can interfere with a baby’s ability to breastfeed or bottle-feed effectively. Lip-tie, on the other hand, happens when the tissue behind the upper lip attaches too tightly to the gum, making it difficult for the baby to latch properly.
Prevalence and Impact
Around 3-11% of the population experiences tongue-tie or lip-tie, with boys being more commonly affected. These conditions can lead to feeding difficulties, resulting in inadequate nutrition and stress for both mother and baby. Babies with tongue-tie may struggle to latch, appear unsettled, and may not gain weight as expected. Sometimes, they may also make a clicking sound while feeding, which can be mistaken for other issues like colic.
Why Do Tongue-Ties Occur?
One theory suggests that a mutation in the MTHFR gene might impact how the body processes folate (vitamin B9), crucial for tissue development during pregnancy. Excessive intake of folic acid, a common prenatal supplement, could potentially contribute to tighter midline structures, leading to tongue-tie.
Your child’s body has an incredible ability to self-regulate and express what it needs to in order to thrive. Our team at Advanced Health Chiropractic will measure, monitor and track on this ability ensuring whatever stresses, challenges or speed bumps you and your child may face – we are here to help.
The Role of Stress
Excessive stress during pregnancy and birth can overstimulate the sympathetic nervous system, increasing tissue tension in the baby. This heightened tension may contribute to the development of tongue-tie or lip-tie. This is one of the first scans and measurements we will take at your child’s initial appointment with us, through safe and non-invasive insight scanning technology.
Chiropractic Care for Tongue-Tie and Lip-Tie
Chiropractic care can play a supportive role in managing tongue-tie and lip-tie by reducing nervous system stress and helping the baby return to a state of ease. Gentle adjustments can decrease tension in the tissues, improving feeding outcomes.
Our chiropractic team is trained to support both mother and baby through feeding challenges. If you suspect your baby has a tongue-tie or lip-tie, we’re here to help. We are here to support mothers throughout pregnancy, the postpartum period, and their babies, promoting overall health and wellness. Contact us today to book an appointment.