Understanding Tongue and Lip Ties: A Comprehensive Guide for Parents

Posted on August 16, 2024 | First Time

As a parent, you want the best for your child’s health and development, including their oral health. Sometimes, conditions like tongue and lip ties can present challenges that need attention. Let’s explore what tongue and lip ties are, how they can affect your child, and the available treatment options.

What Are Tongue and Lip Ties?

A tongue tie (ankyloglossia) occurs when the tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth (the lingual frenulum) is too short or tight, restricting the tongue’s movement. Similarly, a lip tie happens when the tissue connecting the upper lip to the gum (the labial frenulum) is unusually tight or thick, limiting lip movement. These conditions can lead to difficulties with breastfeeding, speech, and even dental health as your child grows. It’s important to note that not all tongue and lip ties require treatment, but understanding their impact can help you make informed decisions.

Signs and Symptoms

Identifying tongue and lip ties early can make a world of difference. Some common signs to look out for include:

• Breastfeeding difficulties: Problems latching, prolonged feedings, or poor weight gain. Your baby might also exhibit frustration or fatigue during feedings, which can be stressful for both the baby and the parent. Mothers may experience cracked, bleeding nipples, and/or severe pain during nursing. 
• Speech issues: Delayed speech development or difficulty pronouncing certain sounds. Children with tongue ties might have trouble articulating words clearly, which can affect their communication skills and confidence.
• Dental problems: Gaps between the front teeth or a high risk of tooth decay due to trapped food particles. Additionally, lip ties can cause discomfort or pain when brushing teeth, leading to inadequate oral hygiene. The palate may develop in a vaulted, narrow pattern, if the tongue is restricted and can’t elevate to rest in the palate.
• Sleep disordered breathing: When tongue movement is restricted, the tongue often can’t rest in the palate, which is where it should be during sleep. If your child sleeps with their mouth open, snores, or is a restless sleeper, this may be due to restricted tongue movement, and should be discussed with your dentist.

Diagnosis and Treatment

The first step toward managing tongue and lip ties is a proper diagnosis. During a routine checkup, your pediatric dentist or orthodontist will assess the mobility of your child’s tongue and lips. They may also inquire about feeding habits and speech development to gather a comprehensive understanding of the issue. If a tie is detected, they will discuss potential treatment options with you.

Frenectomy: A Straightforward Procedure

One of the most effective treatments for tongue and lip ties is a frenectomy, a simple and quick procedure that involves releasing the frenulum to free up movement. This can often be done with a laser or surgical scissors and typically requires minimal recovery time. At Blossom, we use a Lightscalpel CO2 laser, which results in the fastest, most predictable healing, with little post op pain or charing of tissue. With the right care and attention, your child can quickly return to normal activities and experience significant improvements in feeding, speech, and dental health. Parents often report immediate positive changes in their child’s ability to nurse or articulate words after the procedure.

Multidisciplinary Approach 

At Blossom, we strongly believe that a multidisciplinary approach to treating symptoms of tongue and lip ties leads to the best results. We work closely with many other professionals, including lactation consultants, myofunctional therapists, and speech pathologists. We may request (or require) that your child seeks additional therapy before or after providing the release. 

Tailored Treatment for Your Child

Every child is unique, and treatment for tongue and lip ties should be tailored to meet individual needs. At Blossom Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, our team of skilled professionals is dedicated to providing personalized care that addresses your child’s specific situation, ensuring the best possible outcomes. We take into account your child’s medical history, current health, and specific challenges to create a customized treatment plan.

Ready to Address Tongue or Lip Ties?

Concerned about your child’s tongue or lip tie? The team at Blossom Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics is ready to assist. From the initial consultation to post-procedure care, we are committed to supporting your child’s journey to improved oral health. We understand that any medical procedure can be daunting, so we strive to provide a comforting and reassuring environment for both you and your child.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment and start your child on the path to a brighter, healthier smile. Our dedicated staff is here to answer any questions and provide the best care possible for your child’s needs.