The transition from milk or formula to solid foods is an exciting developmental milestone for both parents and children. However, for some little ones, this process doesn’t go as smoothly as expected. One underlying issue that can make this transition more challenging is a lip or tongue tie—a condition that restricts the movement of the lips or tongue due to a tight or short piece of tissue called a frenulum.
While lip and tongue ties are often discussed in relation to breastfeeding difficulties, they can also significantly affect how a child eats solid foods. Here’s how these oral restrictions can interfere with feeding and what parents can do to help their child overcome these challenges.
Understanding Lip and Tongue Ties
A tongue tie (ankyloglossia) occurs when the tissue connecting the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth is too tight or short, limiting tongue mobility. A lip tie happens when the tissue connecting the upper lip to the gums is similarly restrictive. Both conditions vary in severity—some children have mild ties that cause little to no issues, while others experience noticeable problems with feeding, speech, and oral development.
Difficulty Moving Food Around the Mouth
One of the most important skills a baby needs when starting solid foods is the ability to move food around their mouth. The tongue plays a key role in this process, helping to move food from side to side and forming it into a manageable bolus for swallowing.
When a child has a tongue tie, their range of motion is limited. This can make it hard to mash, chew, or move food effectively, leading to frustration and gagging. As a result, children may prefer purees or soft foods and resist textured or solid options, slowing their feeding development.
Problems with Lip Seal and Suction
A lip tie can prevent a child from achieving a proper seal with their lips. This affects their ability to suck from a spoon, straw, or cup, which are essential skills during the weaning process. Poor suction can also cause excessive drooling or difficulty keeping food in the mouth, which can discourage eating and create messy mealtimes.
Without the ability to form a tight lip seal, children may also struggle to manage thicker foods or transition away from bottles and sippy cups.
Increased Gagging or Choking
Children with limited oral mobility often have trouble coordinating the muscles needed for safe swallowing. This can result in frequent gagging or mild choking episodes when trying new textures. While occasional gagging is normal during the learning phase, persistent gagging may indicate an underlying tie or feeding issue.
Over time, this can lead to food aversion—a fear or refusal of certain textures—making mealtimes stressful for both the child and the parents.
Slow or Inefficient Eating
Because they must work harder to manipulate food, children with lip or tongue ties may take longer to eat and tire easily during meals. They might seem uninterested in eating or unable to consume enough food, which can impact nutrition and growth.
A lip or tongue tie might seem like a small issue, but it can have a big impact on your child’s ability to transition to solid foods comfortably and safely. With early diagnosis and the right support, most children can overcome these challenges and enjoy a healthy, happy relationship with food.
About the Practice
Did you know that lip and tongue ties can affect up to 15 percent of babies? The common abnormality can result in a range of problems if left untreated. That’s why you should turn to our expert team at Gale Ranch Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics of San Ramon for treatment. We use a soft tissue laser for a fast and easy solution to a troublesome frenectomy. We feature a modern, comfortable pediatric dentistry office that specializes in preventing future oral health problems. Come see us if your little tyke needs some extra care. Schedule an appointment online or call (925) 648-8580.