Lip ties occur when the strand of tissue connecting the lip to the gum is too tight, short and/or thick. When this happens, it can inhibit normal mouth function and development which can create the possibility for a number of different issues. So what symptoms should you look for, how do you know for sure if your child has a lip tie, and what can be done about it? Luckily, lip ties can be diagnosed and corrected by pediatric dentists relatively easily.
Symptoms
If your infant has a lip tie, they may experience the following symptoms while breastfeeding or bottle feeding:
- Difficulty latching
- Clicking
- Gas
- Inability to fully flange lips around the nipple
In addition, your baby may have difficulty gaining weight, or may develop colic and reflux symptoms. Not only does a lip tie affect the infant, but it can also be painful for breastfeeding mothers.
Nursing moms may experience:
- Cracked nipples
- An over or underproduction of milk
- Pain while nursing
- Plugged ducts
- Flattened top of nipple
As a child with a lip tie ages they might experience significant problems with tooth decay and in some cases, cause a gap between the upper front teeth and even speech delays or impediments.
Lip & Tongue Tie Treatment
A surgical release, or frenectomy, is the treatment of choice for lip and tongue ties. During a frenectomy the excess tissue is removed so that the lip and tongue are allowed more mobility and function. A laser frenectomy poses many advantages over the traditional cut-and-suture procedure, such as:
- Complete removal of tissue
- Minimal bleeding and swelling
- Shortened healing time
- Little discomfort
- Unlikely need for sutures
- A quick procedure, typically only a few minutes
Serving families is what we love to do and it shows! It shows in our happy team, award-winning office and on google! We are constantly humbled by the kind reviews left by our patients and are thrilled to invite you to read them. If you have any questions regarding a frenectomy consult appointment please give us a call or request an appointment today!
Diagnosing Lip Ties
As soon as you suspect your child has a lip tie that is affecting their eating, oral health habits, or speech, it is essential that you contact a professional who can diagnose your child’s condition. At myKIDSdds our pediatric dentists can diagnose and treat lip and tongue ties in a timely manner. Both Dr. Kogut and Dr. Villasenor diagnose conservatively and strive to guide you toward a solution that best suites the needs of you and your baby.
