Tongue and Lip Ties
A tongue-tie is an oral condition where the tongue is tethered to the floor of the mouth through an extra membrane of tissues. Such a condition restricts the free movement of the tongue, which makes it difficult to talk, pronounce words correctly, bite or chew food, or even maintain optimum oral hygiene. A lip tie is a condition where the lower lip would be attached more restrictively to the gums through soft tissues, similar to a tongue tie.
How can tongue tie and lip tie cause trouble?
A tongue or lip tie can make it quite difficult for both the baby and the mother during breastfeeding. Here's how:
- The infant wouldn't be able to latch on to the nipple properly, leading to poor breastfeeding and discomfort for the infant.
- Inadequate breastfeeding can lead to a lack of sufficient weight gain by the baby due to a diminished supply of milk.
- Due to improper alignment of the jaw, babies may experience breathing trouble, sleep apnea, or snoring.
- Mothers may experience a lot of pain and discomfort while breastfeeding.
- Over a few days, the nipples may become bruised, inflamed, and extremely sensitive. It could also lead to improper breast drainage.
How are these conditions treated?
A tongue or lip tie is treated by a well-trained dentist through a dental procedure called Frenulectomy. Initially, the dentist will conduct a thorough diagnosis of the condition and determine whether or not the treatment is required based on the severity. The process is quite simple as it would last no more than 2 minutes. We use a highly intense beam of laser to instantly vaporize the excess tissues. Sedation may or may not be required depending on the age of the child and the amount of tissue to be removed.
Post-treatment, parents would have to carry out simple stretch exercises near the treated tissues to ensure reattachment doesn't occur and observe the best outcome.
Addressing Tongue and Lip Ties in Mesa, AZ, With Expert Pediatric Care
At Chaffee Pediatric Dentistry, we understand the impact that tongue and lip ties can have on a child's oral development and overall well-being. Our dentist specializes in diagnosing and treating tongue and lip ties in Mesa, AZ, to help children achieve optimal oral function and health.
Tongue and lip ties occur when the thin pieces of tissue (frenulum) that attach the tongue or lip to the mouth are too tight or restrictive. This can lead to difficulties with breastfeeding, speech development, and oral hygiene, as well as potential long-term issues with dental and facial growth.
Our compassionate team takes a personalized approach to each child's care, starting with a thorough evaluation to assess the extent of the tongue or lip tie. We utilize advanced techniques and technology to perform gentle and precise frenectomy procedures, releasing the tight tissue to improve mobility and function.
Please do schedule a consultation with our highly trained team of dental experts, and we'll guide you further. Please call us at (480) 739-2993 or reach us through online consultation.
