The tongue test is a mandatory exam in Brazil, and its purpose is to diagnose anomalies in the baby’s tongue or frenulum.
O tongue test It is an exam performed on newborn babies. Therefore, the examination aims to diagnose and, if necessary, indicate early treatment for difficulties and limitations of tongue movements.
When the baby’s frenulum is stuck or has some change (abnormally short or thick lingual frenulum), this can harm their development, especially breastfeeding. This is because this condition can affect and restrict tongue movements. In fact, in cases of tongue-tie, the popular name for ankyloglossia, the baby finds it difficult to breastfeed, suck, swallow, chew and even speak.
Due to its importance, the tongue test is a mandatory examination in all hospitals and maternity wards in the country, determined by federal law no. 13,002. The test is recognized by the Brazilian Society of Speech Therapy and also the Brazilian Association of Orofacial Motricity.
The tongue test
The tongue test should be carried out in the first days of the baby’s life, preferably while still in the maternity ward.
This is a very simple exam that does not cause pain or discomfort to the baby. Carried out by a speech therapist, the test consists of lifting the baby’s tongue to analyze the tongue brake and how it moves the tongue. This observation is usually made when the baby cries or during breastfeeding. Because these changes can make it difficult for the baby to latch onto the mother’s breast.
Therefore, after observing the tongue and shape of the frenulum, the doctor determines a protocol. Therefore, in this protocol, it points out the characteristics observed and whether or not the baby has any changes.
In fact, take the opportunity to check out 21 signs in newborns that could indicate serious problems.
Treatment
So, when any changes are observed during the tongue test, the speech therapist, together with the pediatrician, will indicate the appropriate treatment. This is in accordance with the identified change. Depending on the case, it may be necessary to perform a small procedure to release the baby’s brakes.
Therefore, it is extremely important to get this diagnosis as early as possible to begin treatment. This way, it is possible to avoid negative consequences on the child’s oral development. Ultimately, the sooner the problem is fixed the better.
Breastfeeding assessment
In addition to the tongue test, which is mandatory, it is also recommended to carry out a breastfeeding assessment. This is because any abnormality in the tongue can cause the baby to have difficulty latching on to the breast. In these cases, it is common to cause breast fissures and even difficulty gaining weight. Both directly linked to early weaning.
Therefore, it is important that when the baby is breastfeeding, observe the strength of the suction.
Anyway, now that you understand what the tongue test is and the importance of it, check out what the heel prick test is for.
Sources: Test Ministry of Health Tua Saúde
Bibliography
- VIRTUAL HEALTH LIBRARY. What is the objective, when and how to carry out the tongue test?. Available at:
- MARTINELLI, Roberta LC et al. Lingual frenulum assessment protocol for babies: relationship between anatomical and functional aspects. Rev. CEFAC. Vol.15, n.3. 599-610, 2013
