Whether you are a first-time parent or not, welcoming a baby into the world is an exciting time. Of course, while they do not come with a manual, it often takes help from professionals who can explain what is normal, when to seek help, and how to navigate the initial days, weeks, and months with a newborn. One thing you might not be considering, though, is the idea of a lip or tongue tie. This common condition occurs in many infants, but the issues that can arise as a result can leave you and your baby frustrated and desperate for help. Read on to find out why it’s in your and your little one’s best interest to catch the early signs of a lip or tongue tie.
What is a Lip and/or Tongue Tie?
During fetal development in the womb, infants are likely to have a band of tissue behind their upper lip or underneath their tongue. In most cases, this will stretch in such a way that it poses no problems once the baby is born.
However, there are instances where the frenulums as they are known remain restricted. Referred to as ankyloglossia, this congenital defect makes it difficult for little ones to latch during breastfeeding and even take a bottle.
Are There Consequences that Come with Untreated Lip and Tongue Ties?
As it was previously mentioned above, babies with lip and tongue ties struggle to nurse, which can be difficult for both you and your little one. You might think you’re doing something wrong when in fact, you’re not.
However, you may not recognize the signs that are commonly associated with this type of situation. It is possible that babies will exhibit some or all of the following symptoms:
- Fussiness
- Inability to latch during breastfeeding
- Colic or acid reflux
- Poor weight gain
- Gumming at the nipple in an attempt to latch
- Prolonged feedings because of a poor latch
Without timely treatment, babies can suffer short- and long-term consequences, including:
- Weight loss due to lack of nutrients and feedings
- A gap that forms between their upper front two teeth that increases their risk of gum disease and tooth decay
- Difficulty speaking as they get older, causing them to have a lisp
- Lack of confidence when surrounded by peers
- Mouth breathing that can lead to sleep breathing disorders
- The development of temporomandibular joint disorder
What Kind of Treatment is Available for Lip and Tongue Ties?
The most effective way to treat a lip or tongue tie is to have your little one receive a frenectomy. This common procedure is often performed with the use of a soft tissue laser.
Known for its quick and virtually painless process, frenectomies work to release the banded tissue from behind the upper lip or beneath the tongue so that patients will enjoy greater oral mobility and function.
The laser’s precise beam of light releases the tissue, cauterizing and sterilizing as it moves. This not only reduces bleeding but also minimizes swelling and the possibility of post-op infection.
It can feel alarming when your baby is having difficulty nursing or struggles to take a bottle, but you no longer have to search for answers as to why it might be happening. Instead, meet with their pediatric dentist to discuss the possibility of a lip or tongue tie so that you can get your baby the help they need early on.
About the Authors
As board-certified pediatric dentists and fathers, Dr. Justin Chan and Dr. Sage Yoo work closely with parents to ensure the health and future of their children’s smiles. When a nervous or anxious parent arrives complaining of their baby’s inability to nurse or take a bottle, we can examine the infant’s mouth for a lip or tongue tie. If one is found, we can remedy the situation with a quick and easy frenectomy. Visit our website or call (469) 294-8217 to find out how we can help you.