Ankyloglossia
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.
Ankyloglossia is also called tongue-tie. It is a condition that prevents your child's tongue from moving as freely as it should. The tongue is connected to the floor of the mouth by a thin piece of tissue called the frenulum. Your child's frenulum may be shorter, thicker, or tighter than it should be. Ankyloglossia can range from mild to severe depending on how much it decreases movement of the tongue.
DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Return to the emergency department if:
- Your child refuses to feed at all.
- Your child shows signs of dehydration from not feeding well. These signs may include urinating less than usual, crying without tears, or having dry, chapped lips. Your infant may have a sunken fontanel (soft spot) on the top of the head.
Contact your child's healthcare provider if:
- Your baby has problems with latching onto your breast during breastfeeding.
- Your baby is not satisfied after feedings, or you are having severe nipple pain when breastfeeding.
- You are concerned that your baby is not getting enough breast milk or formula during feedings.
- You find breastfeeding painful.
- Your child has problems swallowing food.
- Your child has problems saying some words or speaking.
- You have questions or concerns about your child's condition or care.
Follow up with your child's healthcare provider as directed:
Your child may need to follow up with his or her healthcare provider to make sure he or she is eating and healing well. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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