Can Tongue Tie Cause Reflux and Constipation in Babies?

It is well known that tongue tie and lip tie can interfere with a child’s ability to breastfeed, but that is really just the beginning of the problem. In fact, evidence indicates that a tongue tie could even contribute to digestive problems, including reflux and constipation. How is that the case, and how might treatment be able to help? This blog post explains.

Tongue Tie and Reflux

Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) in babies often occurs as the result of an infant swallowing too much air while feeding. This particular type of reflux, known as aerophagia, can cause a swollen belly and other uncomfortable symptoms.

Sadly, tongue tie and lip tie can contribute to aerophagia because they make it difficult for a baby to completely latch onto a nipple or bottle. As a result, they may swallow quite a bit of air before they finish feeding.

Tongue Tie and Constipation

To understand the link between tongue tie, lip tie, and constipation, it is important to note that digestion starts in the mouth. A baby or young child may not be able to properly chew their food due to restricted movement of their lips or tongue. They may also not be able to swallow as forcefully as they would if their oral structures were able to function normally.

These issues can allow somewhat large chunks of food to make their way to the stomach and intestines, where they can only be partially digested. As a result, there may be an overgrowth of bacteria in the digestive tract, which can contribute to bloating, cramps, and constipation.

Treatment Can Help

Many parents have noted that after treatment for lip or tongue tie, their children experience fewer digestive problems, such as reflux and constipation. Following a minimally invasive surgery to free up movement of the lip and/or tongue, a child can start to form a proper seal while feeding, which leads to less ingestion of air. It can also improve swallowing ability, as well as chewing ability in children who are old enough to eat solid foods.

In some cases, myofunctional therapy (physical therapy for the mouth) is used alongside lip and tongue tie treatment to optimize oral function.

If you suspect that lip or tongue tie is interfering with your child’s digestion, talk to a qualified dentist about your concerns. They can evaluate the situation and recommend your next steps. Hopefully, your little one will soon be on their way to improved health!

Meet the Practice

Dr. Garcia-DeMartino is a dentist with more than 30 years of experience. In 2008, she completed training that made her an expert in the use of dental lasers, which are regarded as the best and most conservative way to perform lip and tongue tie release surgery. If you believe your child could benefit from treatment for lip or tongue tie, Dr. Garcia-DeMartino and our team would be pleased to consult with you. Contact our Phillipsburg office at 908-859-5260.