Tongue tie assessment @ Serenity Baby Clinic, Cheshire
If you are concerned that your baby may have a tongue tie, our trained tongue tie practitioners can assess your baby's oral function and tell you if further treatment to divide it is required either by our trusted partner or the NHS service.
Tongue tie support Cheshire & Shropshire
Katherine & Caroline are our trained tongue tie practitioners and they can support you with any concerns you have about your baby’s oral function.
Why are we different from other practitioners?
We offer a full feeding and oral assessment before considering your baby for a tongue tie procedure
- We will bring you back if your baby requires a procedure after giving you all the information, pro’s and cons so you are fully informed when consenting to the procedure
- We will never make you feel like a tongue tie is an emergency, because it’s not, you’ve got as much time as you need to decide if it is right for your baby.
- Our follow up appointments are face to face, not over the phone and we will ensure feeding is re-assessed.
- Our prices are transparent, no hidden costs, no additional fees, no extortionate follow up costs… Just the right support!
What is a Tongue Tie?
A tongue tie (also known as ankyloglossia) is a condition present at birth where the strip of tissue underneath the tongue, called the lingual frenulum, is shorter, tighter or thicker than usual. This can restrict the movement of the tongue.
Not all tongue ties cause problems, and many babies feed well without treatment. However, for some babies, limited tongue movement can affect feeding, growth and comfort.
Signs Your Baby May Have a Tongue Tie
Your baby may benefit from a tongue tie assessment if they experience:
- Difficulty latching onto the breast
- Frequent slipping off the breast during feeds
- Clicking noises while feeding
- Prolonged or very frequent feeds
- Poor weight gain or slow feeding
- Frustration or distress during feeds
- Excessive wind, reflux-like symptoms or gulping air
- Difficulty transferring milk effectively
- Bottle feeding difficulties
Breastfeeding mothers may also experience:
- Painful or damaged nipples
- Compressed or misshapen nipples after feeds
- Recurrent blocked ducts or mastitis
- Low milk supply due to ineffective milk removal
- Persistent pain despite good positioning and attachment support
A full assessment considers both your baby’s tongue function and how feeding is going, rather than simply whether a tongue tie is present.
What is a Frenulotomy?
A frenulotomy (also called a tongue tie release) is a quick procedure that releases the tight frenulum beneath the tongue, allowing improved tongue movement.
For young babies, the procedure usually takes only a few seconds. Using sterile scissors, the clinician carefully divides the restrictive tissue. Most babies can feed immediately afterwards, and many parents notice an improvement in feeding over the following days or weeks.
Following the procedure, we provide feeding support, aftercare advice and guidance on tongue mobility exercises where appropriate.
Every baby is different, and while many families notice significant improvements, outcomes vary depending on the individual baby’s feeding difficulties and any other contributing factors.
Our Tongue Tie Assessment
Every appointment includes a detailed assessment to determine whether treatment is appropriate.
We will:
- Take a full feeding history
- Observe your baby feeding where possible
- Assess tongue appearance and function
- Discuss your concerns and answer your questions
- Explain whether a frenulotomy is likely to help
- Provide clear, honest advice with no pressure to proceed
If your baby’s feeding concerns are not related to tongue tie, we will discuss other possible causes and appropriate support.
Book a Tongue Tie Assessment
If you’re worried your baby may have a tongue tie, we’re here to help.
Price £39
Our tongue tie assessment clinic is located at Park view business centre, Combermere, Nantwich, Cheshire SY13 4AL
Frequently Asked Questions
Does every tongue tie need treatment?
No. Many babies have a tongue tie but feed well without any intervention. Treatment is only recommended when the tongue tie is causing functional problems, particularly with feeding. We will never offer a tongue tie procedure unless it is indicated.
Is a frenulotomy safe?
A frenulotomy is considered a safe procedure when performed by an appropriately trained healthcare professional. As with any procedure, there are small risks, which will be discussed with you during your consultation.
How soon will feeding improve?
Some families notice an immediate improvement, while for others feeding gradually improves over several days or weeks as babies learn to use their increased tongue movement. Continued feeding support can make a significant difference.
Can my baby feed immediately after the procedure?
Yes. We encourage babies to breastfeed or bottle feed immediately after the frenulotomy whenever possible.
What age is best for tongue tie release?
Tongue tie can be treated at various ages, but assessment and treatment during early infancy often allow feeding issues to be addressed promptly, helping families establish comfortable feeding as early as possible.