Baby Chewing On Tongue – Causes And Remedies

Introduction

Watching your baby grow and develop is a joyous experience. However, when your little one starts chewing on their tongue, it can be a worrying sight. This article will explore the causes of a baby chewing on their tongue and offer tips on how to stop this behavior.

Why Do Babies Chew on Their Tongue?

Babies are known for putting everything in their mouth, so it’s not surprising that they might chew on their tongue. However, if this behavior persists, it could be a sign of an underlying issue. Some common reasons why babies chew on their tongue include:

Teething

The discomfort of teething can cause babies to chew on anything they can get their hands on, including their tongue.

Oral Thrush

This is a fungal infection that can occur in the mouth, causing discomfort and irritation. Babies may chew on their tongue to alleviate this discomfort.

Mouth Sensory Issues

Some babies have sensory issues, and chewing on their tongue may provide a sensory input that they find comforting.

What Are the Risks of Chewing on the Tongue?

While chewing on the tongue is not necessarily harmful, it can cause some negative effects, such as:

Mouth Sores

Chewing on the tongue can cause sores to develop, which can be painful and make it difficult to eat or drink.

Speech Issues

Continual chewing on the tongue can cause speech issues, as the tongue is an essential muscle for proper speech development.

Dental Problems

Chewing on the tongue can lead to dental problems, such as misaligned teeth or damage to the tongue itself.

How Can You Stop Your Baby from Chewing on Their Tongue?

If your baby is constantly chewing on their tongue, it’s important to address the behavior. Here are some tips that may help:

Provide Teething Relief

If teething is the cause of the behavior, provide your baby with teething toys or a cold washcloth to chew on.

Treat Oral Thrush

If your baby has oral thrush, consult with your pediatrician for treatment options.

Try Sensory Play

If your baby has sensory issues, try providing sensory play toys that can provide the same sensory input as chewing on their tongue.

Distract Your Baby

When you notice your baby chewing on their tongue, distract them with a toy or activity to shift their focus.

Speak with Your Pediatrician

If the behavior persists, speak with your pediatrician to rule out any underlying medical issues.

Conclusion

Watching your baby chew on their tongue can be concerning, but it’s important to understand the underlying reasons for the behavior. By addressing the cause and providing appropriate remedies, you can help your baby overcome this behavior and prevent any negative effects.