In pediatric oral health, ankyloglossia, or tongue-tie, is a diagnosis that’s getting more attention in the community and in popular media. But behind the headlines is a complex clinical issue with tangible consequences for infant feeding, speech development and oral hygiene. The Canadian Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (CAPD) issued a Position Statement on Ankyloglossia and Breastfeeding in 2025, developed in collaboration with pediatric medical organizations. Dr. Duy Dat Vu, pediatric dentist and CAPD president, discusses the role that dentists can have with addressing the issues associated with this condition. Tongue-Tie and Breastfeeding: Rethinking Ankyloglossia in Dental Practice “Ankyloglossia is more commonly known to the public as a tongue-tie,” Dr. Vu explains. “It occurs when a small band of tissue connects to the floor of the mouth, underneath the tongue. When that band is unusually short, thick or tight, it can restrict the tongue’s movement.” This type of restriction can impair more than just motion, it can also affect essential functions, particularly breastfeeding. When the movement of the infant’s tongue is restricted, it’s function is impeded and breastfeeding may not be as effective as it could be. Sometimes the infant struggles to latch onto the breast, and it can become painful for the nursing mother. Beyond infancy, tongue-tie can affect speech, swallowing, oral hygiene, and in some rare cases, the growth and development of the jaw. “Early identification and monitoring are important, to make sure kids develop properly,” Dr. Vu adds. “It’s all about prevention.” Complexity and Collaboration The CAPD’s position statement represents a shift, emphasizing that ankyloglossia is not a simple diagnosis, and its treatment must never be approached with a onesize-fits-all intervention. “It’s not as simple as, if you identify a tongue-tie, you simply cut it,” Dr. Vu says. “Sometimes doing nothing is actually the best thing.” The condition can Beyond infancy, tongue-tie can affect speech, swallowing, oral hygiene, and in some rare cases, the growth and development of the jaw. Dr. Duy Dat Vu, is a pediatric dentist and president of the Canadian Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (CAPD). 18 | 2026 | Issue 2
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