Diagnoses Are on the Upswing: Are Lip and Tongue Ties Becoming More Common?

If you are a parent of a young child, you might have heard more about lip and tongue ties in recent years. These conditions, which involve thick or restrictive bands of tissue in the mouth (called frenums or frenulums), have become a prominent topic in both medical offices and parenting circles. With more parents seeking advice and treatment, you may wonder whether lip and tongue ties are actually becoming more common, or if something else is at play. This blog post explores possible reasons behind the uptick in diagnoses and offers guidance on how you can identify signs of a lip and tongue tie in your child.

Are Lip and Tongue Ties Becoming More Common?

Across the country, pediatric dentists report that more families are asking about lip and tongue ties and pursuing treatment for their children. However, this rise in diagnoses does not necessarily mean that the conditions are occurring more often in infants. At least two factors help explain why these issues seem to be on the upswing:

• Greater awareness: Parents and healthcare providers have access to more information about lip and tongue ties, making it easier to recognize the symptoms and arrive at a diagnosis.
• Breastfeeding trends: As more mothers choose to breastfeed, symptoms linked to lip and tongue ties, such as feeding difficulties, have become more noticeable and widely discussed.

Recognizing Signs in Your Child

If you suspect your child might have a lip or tongue tie, watch for the following signs during feeding and daily routines:

• Your baby has trouble latching during breastfeeding.
• Feeding sessions are frequent but brief.
• Your baby experiences excessive fussiness or signs of colic.
• You are struggling with painful nipples, clogged milk ducts, or other difficulties while nursing.

Some children with a lip or tongue tie have very mild symptoms — or no noticeable symptoms at all — and thrive without intervention. Others may struggle with feeding or comfort, which can affect growth and well-being. In such cases, treatment becomes critically important.

​When to Seek Treatment

If you identify signs of lip or tongue tie that affect your child's feeding or comfort, it is wise to consult a pediatric dentist. These specialists have experience diagnosing and treating oral tissue concerns in infants. Treatment often involves a quick, minimally invasive procedure that safely releases the restrictive tissue, helping your child feed more effectively and comfortably.

A lip or tongue tie could negatively affect your baby! Stay alert to signs of these conditions, and do not hesitate to reach out for professional help.

Meet the Practice

Dr. Adrienne Archidiacono-Jeanis is a pediatric dentist who serves the Aledo, TX, and Fort Worth area. She is trained in the use of lasers to provide comfortable and quick treatment for lip and tongue ties. If you are concerned that your infant might have one of these conditions, contact our practice at 817-406-2025.

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