The frenulum is the thin band of tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth, or the upper lip to the gumline. When it's too short or tight — a condition called tongue-tie or lip-tie — it may restrict movement. Appearance alone does not determine whether treatment is needed.
Signs Your Baby May Have a Tongue-Tie or Lip-Tie
- Difficulty latching or staying latched during breastfeeding
- Clicking sounds while nursing
- Poor weight gain despite frequent feeds
- Painful nursing for the mother
- A care professional's concern about restricted movement
- Questions about coordinating feeding support
These signs can have more than one cause. A consultation is a place to discuss the concern, the examination findings, reasonable alternatives, and whether another member of the child's care team should be involved.
