More parents are becoming familiar with what lip and tongue ties are by the day because they are being diagnosed at a higher rate than ever before. While the issue and treatment, called frenectomies, are not new, many parents find themselves researching the issue to learn more about the adverse effects and symptoms to look out for. Read on to learn more about lip and tongue ties and what causes them to develop in children.
What is a Lip Tie?
A lip tie is a condition that restricts the mobility of either the upper or lower lip due to a small piece of tissue, called a frenulum. This is the strip of tissue that connects the lips to the gums, helping babies create suction to nurse and bottle feed.
What is a Tongue Tie?
A tongue tie is a condition that prevents the full movement of the tongue caused by a restricted frenulum. When the strip of tissue that connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth is too long or too thick, it can be difficult for babies and children to feed, pronounce certain words when they get older, or even sleep soundly.
What Causes Oral Restrictions in Children?
Research has shown that one of the most significant factors in the development of lip and tongue restrictions is genetics. Chances are, if a parent has a lip or tongue tie, their child will too!
When left untreated, lip and tongue ties can lead to a variety of concerns in infants and children, including:
- Problems Nursing
- Food Aversion
- Increased Risk of Oral Health Problems
- Speech Difficulties
How Can You Treat Tethered Oral Tissues?
The first step of addressing your child’s condition is to have them receive an examination from a professional, such as a pediatric dentist. Not every baby with a lip or tongue tie needs a frenectomy, though. Sometimes, therapeutic intervention to reassess and re-establish the brain-tongue connection can help your child overcome any functional limitations. On the other hand, a frenectomy could dramatically improve your child’s quality of life if their condition is moderate to severe in nature.
A laser frenectomy is a state-of-the-art treatment where a pediatric dentist releases the restrictive frenum. The laser is a more comfortable, advanced, and less invasive alternative to using surgical scissors or a scalpel, as it kills bacteria and reduces post-operative discomfort and bleeding.
Care does not end with a pediatric dentist, though. The best treatment for oral restrictions is team-based. The infant or child may also need support from a feeding therapist, occupational or physical therapist, chiropractors, and more.
If you believe that your child could have a lip or tongue tie, the best first step to take is to schedule an examination with a Board-Certified pediatric dentist. This will help you get informed about your child’s condition and helpful treatment options.
About the Author
Dr. Vani Takiar, also known as Agent T by her patients, is a skilled Board-Certified pediatric dentist dedicated to utilizing the latest technology for seamless lip and tongue tie treatment. She is specially trained in using the Solea® All-Tissue Dental Laser, allowing her to offer more comfortable and precise frenectomies for babies and young children. To schedule a consultation and learn more about lip and tongue ties, visit Tooth Clues’ website or call 571-799-0559.