Why is my newborn jaw clicking while breastfeeding?

Understanding Jaw Clicking in Newborns During Breastfeeding
For new parents, the experience of breastfeeding can be both rewarding and challenging. One common concern that arises is the clicking sound some newborns make while nursing. This phenomenon can be puzzling and may lead to questions about the baby’s health and feeding technique.
What Causes the Clicking Sound?
The clicking noise often occurs when the baby breaks the seal created by their tongue against the breast. During breastfeeding, the middle portion of the tongue lifts to create a vacuum against the palate. If this seal is disrupted—typically when the baby’s jaw moves down or away from the breast—the clicking sound is produced. This can happen for several reasons, including:
1. Tongue Tie: One of the more common causes of clicking is a condition known as ankyloglossia, or tongue tie, where the frenulum (the tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth) is too tight. This can restrict the tongue’s movement, making it difficult for the baby to maintain a proper latch.
2. Jaw Anatomy: Some infants may have anatomical variations, such as a recessed jaw or retrognathia, which can complicate breastfeeding. These conditions can lead to challenges in achieving a proper latch, resulting in the clicking sound as the baby struggles to maintain suction.
3. Feeding Technique: Sometimes, the clicking can be attributed to improper latching techniques. If the baby is not latched on correctly, they may not be able to create a strong enough seal, leading to interruptions in suction and the characteristic clicking noise.
Is It a Cause for Concern?
While the clicking sound can be alarming, it is not always indicative of a serious problem. Many babies will outgrow this behavior as they develop better control over their oral muscles and improve their breastfeeding technique. However, if the clicking is accompanied by other issues—such as poor weight gain, difficulty feeding, or signs of discomfort—it may be worth consulting a lactation consultant or pediatrician for further evaluation.
The Importance of Proper Latch and Support
Ensuring that your baby has a good latch is crucial not only for effective feeding but also for the development of their jaw and oral structures. Breastfeeding is known to provide beneficial forces on the jaws, promoting healthy growth and alignment. If you suspect that your baby’s clicking is due to anatomical issues or improper latching, seeking support from a lactation consultant can be invaluable. They can provide guidance on positioning and techniques to help improve the breastfeeding experience for both mother and baby.
In conclusion, while jaw clicking during breastfeeding can be a common occurrence, understanding its causes and implications can help parents navigate this aspect of infant feeding with greater confidence. If concerns persist, professional support is always a good step to ensure both the baby’s health and the breastfeeding journey are on the right track.

Why does my baby’s ear click while breastfeeding?

There is usually some pressure that builds in the ear when sucking and when there is ear pain, that pressure can be extremely uncomfortable. Baby may try to relieve it somewhat by not getting as tight of a seal around the breast or by repeatedly breaking the suction (thus the click).

Why does my newborn make noises while breastfeeding?

Babies often make a lot of noise when nursing; this is a common infant behavior. Most of the noises are related to the tongue and the swallowing of milk. Sometimes, the noise is located outside the oral cavity, and we hear it a little “down” in the neck area.

Why does my newborns jaw chatter?

And in most cases, a chin tremor is simply a signal that your little one is close to tears. Chin quivering should be considered commonplace as long as the following things appear to be functioning properly: Muscle reflexes during formula or breastfeeding. Protective muscle reflexes when they’re startled or surprised.

Should baby’s jaw move while nursing?

Your baby’s mouth should open wide during latch-on. It is important to get baby attached to the areola, with the nipple drawn into the mouth behind jaw lines. This ensures proper attachment. You should see your baby’s jaw, ear or temple move with proper attachment.

How to know if a newborn has a tongue-tie?

Signs and symptoms of tongue-tie include:

1. Difficulty lifting the tongue to the upper teeth or moving the tongue from side to side.
2. Trouble sticking out the tongue past the lower front teeth.
3. A tongue that appears notched or heart shaped when stuck out.

Why does my baby’s jaw click when feeding?

Why is my baby making clicking noises?

• Poor positioning/latch
• A strong, forceful letdown
• Engorgement
• Poor tongue mobility/function (Such as tongue tie)
• A weakness of the tongue
• Inability to maintain a seal due to weak muscles or restricted lip (lip tie)
• Body tension or physical limitations such as Torticollis

How do I know if my baby is swallowing air while breastfeeding?

The infant will make a suck or two and then an audible swallow should be heard as the milk is swallowed. The sounds of “gulping” and “clicking” can signify a poor vacuum is in place and the child is swallowing more air then milk.

How do you know if your baby has an ear infection or teething?

Symptoms of a middle ear infection include fever, fluid draining from the ear, ear pain, and trouble hearing, while teething causes gum swelling, drooling, and chewing on objects.

Why is my baby making a clicking sound while breastfeeding?

Clicking is caused whenever there is a loss of suction. This can happen both at the breast or on the bottle, and may or may not be seen in conjunction with more obvious signs of “breaking the seal” such as leaking.

Why does my newborn make a clicking sound with his mouth?

Oral motor hypotonia, also known as weak tongue strength, can be a potential cause of clicking sounds in infants and kids. Some potential signs reveal that your baby has weak tongue strength, such as: Long feeding time. Seems to be hungry a lot of the times.