Most parents are aware that lip and tongue-ties can make breastfeeding difficult, but the effects don’t stop there. As babies grow, these restrictions in oral movement can also interfere with the transition to solid foods. From refusing certain textures to struggling with chewing and swallowing, a tie can make mealtimes frustrating for both parents and children. Understanding how ties impact feeding beyond infancy can help you support your child’s development and ensure they get the nutrition they need.
Why Oral Freedom Matters for Eating
Learning to eat solid foods requires more than just appetite—it takes complex coordination of the lips, tongue, and jaw. Babies need to move food around their mouths, mash it with their gums or teeth, and then safely swallow. When a tongue-tie limits movement, or a lip-tie restricts how the lips seal, these steps become harder. As a result, children may avoid certain foods or develop habits that make eating less efficient.
Common Feeding Challenges Linked to Ties
Lip and tongue-ties can show up in a variety of ways once a baby starts solids. Some common issues include:
- Refusing foods that are harder to chew, like meats or raw vegetables
- Difficulty moving food from side to side in the mouth
- Gagging or choking more often on textured foods
- Preferring purees longer than expected
- Messy eating due to trouble keeping food and liquids in the mouth
Over time, these challenges can limit a child’s diet and make it harder for them to get balanced nutrition.
Long-Term Effects of Untreated Ties
If not addressed, ties can contribute to picky eating, poor weight gain, and even speech difficulties later in childhood. Children may stick to softer, less nutritious foods simply because they are easier to manage, which can affect growth and overall health. Parents often report feeling stressed or discouraged when mealtimes become battles instead of positive experiences. Early intervention can prevent these issues and make eating a more enjoyable process for the whole family.
Supporting a Smooth Transition to Solids
The good news is that lip and tongue-ties can be treated effectively, often with a simple in-office procedure. After release, many children benefit from working with feeding therapists or speech-language pathologists to learn new oral skills. At home, parents can encourage progress by offering a variety of safe, age-appropriate foods and giving their child time to explore textures without pressure. Regular dental and pediatric checkups also ensure that any ongoing concerns are addressed quickly.
When ties are treated early, babies and young children are better equipped to enjoy a wider variety of foods and build healthy eating habits.
About the Practice
At Garden Oaks Family Dental in Denton, families receive compassionate, family-focused care that supports children at every stage of development. Dr. Ruehle and Dr. Eide provide safe and effective treatment for lip and tongue-ties, helping babies and children overcome feeding challenges and thrive. Our goal is to make mealtimes healthier and happier for the whole family.
Call us at (940) 566-4888 or request an appointment online.