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Why can't our baby stick her tongue out?


Our 18-month-old baby girl's tongue appears to have no tip and she is unable to stick it out.

I have been told that I had the same problem as a child and a small operation was required.

What is the matter with her and will she need an operation too?


It sounds as if your daughter has a problem called tongue tie.

This means that she cannot stick her tongue right out of her mouth because a small piece of tissue attaching the underside of her tongue to the floor of her mouth is shorter than normal.

Years ago children with tongue tie were often operated upon (it sounds as if you were one of them!) but nowadays surgery is usually reserved for the more severe cases.

For example, where the tip of the tongue cannot be protruded over the lower lip and the condition is causing problems with feeding or speech.

If you think the tongue tie is causing any problems for your daughter then take her along to see your GP, but don't panic!

There is no great urgency about having the condition treated.

Yours sincerely

The NetDoctor Medical Team

Last updated 30.05.2014