What Causes a Tongue Tie?

A tongue tie, medically known as ankyloglossia, is a condition present at birth that affects how freely the tongue can move. While it may appear minor at first glance, restricted tongue movement can interfere with essential functions such as breastfeeding, speech development, swallowing, and oral hygiene. Understanding what causes a tongue tie begins with understanding the anatomy of the tongue itself.

At NYC Tongue Tie, families receive expert evaluation and gentle treatment for tongue tie and lip tie from Gregory Levitin, MD, a board-certified Otolaryngologist–Head and Neck Surgeon and Fellow of the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery.

The Anatomy of the Tongue

The tongue is a highly mobile muscle essential for feeding, speech, and proper oral development. It is connected to the floor of the mouth by a thin band of tissue called the lingual frenulum. In most people, this tissue allows the tongue to lift, extend, and move side to side freely.

A tongue tie occurs when the lingual frenulum is unusually short, thick, or tight. This restriction limits tongue mobility and can prevent the tongue from reaching the roof of the mouth or extending beyond the lower lip.

What Causes a Tongue Tie?

Tongue tie is a congenital condition, meaning it develops before birth. The exact cause is not fully understood, but it occurs when the lingual frenulum fails to separate properly during fetal development.

Research suggests a genetic component. Tongue tie often runs in families and is more common in boys than girls. Studies estimate that 4% to 11% of newborns are affected by some degree of tongue tie, though many cases go undiagnosed.

How Tongue Tie Affects Breastfeeding

One of the earliest signs of tongue tie is difficulty with breastfeeding. A proper latch requires the tongue to extend and elevate effectively. When movement is restricted, infants may struggle to latch deeply or maintain suction.

Common breastfeeding issues linked to tongue tie include:

• Poor latch or frequent slipping
• Prolonged feeding times
• Clicking sounds while nursing
• Maternal nipple pain or damage
• Poor weight gain in infants

Early identification can make a significant difference in feeding success.

Impact on Speech and Oral Development

As children grow, restricted tongue mobility can affect speech clarity. Certain sounds require precise tongue movement, particularly sounds involving the tip of the tongue. While not every child with a tongue tie will have speech issues, the risk is increased.

Tongue tie may also contribute to:

• Difficulty with chewing or swallowing
• Limited oral range of motion
• Challenges with dental hygiene
• Improper oral muscle development

Addressing the restriction early can help support normal development.

A Gentle, Non-Surgical Treatment Option

Traditional treatments for tongue tie often involve lasers, scalpels, or sutures. Dr. Levitin has developed a unique, non-surgical approach that prioritizes comfort and safety.

This in-office procedure:

• Uses only a small amount of local anesthesia
• Is completely pain-free
• Requires no laser or scalpel
• Uses no sutures
• Takes less than 10 minutes

The approach is designed to release the restriction while minimizing stress for both infants and parents. Most patients experience immediate improvement in tongue mobility.

Pain-Free, Laser-Free, Scalpel-Free Care

Families seeking treatment often worry about discomfort or recovery time. Dr. Levitin’s method focuses on simplicity and precision, allowing treatment to be completed quickly in a calm office setting.

Because the procedure is minimally invasive, healing is rapid, and many infants can feed immediately afterward. Parents frequently report noticeable improvements in feeding, comfort, and tongue movement.

When to Seek an Evaluation

If an infant is struggling with breastfeeding or a child shows signs of restricted tongue movement, an evaluation can provide clarity. Early assessment allows families to understand whether a tongue tie is present and whether treatment may be beneficial.

At NYC Tongue Tie, compassionate care and advanced expertise come together to address tongue tie and lip tie effectively. With a pain-free, laser-free, and scalpel-free approach, treatment can be both gentle and transformative for patients of all ages. Contact us today to schedule your tongue tie evaluation.