Set Your Child Free with Tongue-tie and Lip-tie Treatments (Frenectomy)
Our bodies contain several frenula, small folds of tissue that anchor or restrict certain organs. You may not be familiar with the term, but you’ve likely seen them. Two important frenulum in your child’s mouth are the lingual frenulum (tongue-tie), which connects the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth, and the maxillary labial frenulum (lip-tie), which connects the upper lip to the gum tissue, aiding in proper movement.
When a frenulum is abnormally short or tight, it can restrict movement of the tongue or lip, impacting various oral functions. Simply Kids Dental provides frenectomy or tongue/lip-tie release, a straightforward surgical procedure to release the restrictive tissue band and restore normal function.
What are the signs of a tongue or lip-tie?
During infancy, the tongue requires unrestricted movement to create sufficient suction for effective breastfeeding. A condition known as tongue tie, or ankyloglossia, can hinder proper latching onto the breast. This may result in inefficient breastfeeding sessions where the baby struggles to extract an adequate amount of milk despite prolonged feeding attempts.
The following are the common signs of a tongue-tie:
- Poor breastfeeding
- Gassiness because of excessive air intake when breastfeeding
- Loss of weight because of poor feeding
- Clicking sound or fussiness when breastfeeding
- Excessive sucking can cause nipple pain and damage
- Poor latch causes milk to leak on the sides of the mouth
- Mouth breathing or restless sleeping patterns because the tongue isn’t in an optimal posture
The above signs are common in infants and babies. Older children may experience the following symptoms.
- Trouble articulating certain sounds
- Inability to stick their tongue past the teeth
- Trouble licking an ice cream
- Challenges playing wind instruments
- Increased risk of tooth decay because the tongue can’t eliminate food debris from the mouth
Tethered oral tissues, such as lip or tongue-ties, are often overlooked by parents but can lead to more than just breastfeeding challenges. Untreated lip or tongue-ties can contribute to issues like sleep-disordered breathing, speech difficulties, and orthodontic problems.
How is a tongue or lip tie treated?
A restricted labial or lingual frenulum is treated with a minor surgical procedure called frenectomy. The pediatric dentist cuts or “releases” the tight frenulum, improving the range of motion of the tongue or lip.
The pediatric dentist performs frenectomy using sterile scissors, scalpel, or a laser. This procedure is swift and typically painless for babies, as we administer local anesthetics to minimize any discomfort. This procedure typically requires no stitches and lasts only a few minutes.
Early intervention is crucial because older children may require dental care under general anesthesia or sedation due to difficulty remaining still. In these cases, stitching may be necessary to ensure proper healing of the wound. Early evaluation and intervention can often prevent the need for general anesthesia. Once the consultation is complete, often same-day treatment is an available option.
Can a tongue-tie grow back?
Following tongue-tie surgery, the frenulum does not regenerate, but there is a possibility of tissue reattachment due to rapid healing. To prevent reattachment, it’s important to adhere to our office’s guidelines, which may include performing post-procedure exercises. These exercises help maintain the separation of the tissues and support optimal healing.
Post-operative video discussed in the office
Does your child have a tongue or lip-tie?
Simple Kids Dental offers numerous pediatric services, including frenectomies. If you suspect your child has a tongue or lip-tie in Colorado Springs, CO, and its surroundings, call (719) 249-2030 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Sean Vostatek.
