What Are Tongue and Lip Ties?
A tongue tie (ankyloglossia) occurs when the thin piece of tissue under the tongue (lingual frenulum) is too short, tight, or thick, limiting the tongue’s movement. Similarly, a lip tie involves the tissue connecting the upper lip to the gums (labial frenulum) being overly restrictive. These conditions can impact the function and mobility of the tongue and lips, leading to various challenges.
Potential Issues Caused by Tongue and Lip Ties
When left untreated, tongue and lip ties can affect:
- Feeding
- Infants: Difficulty breastfeeding or bottle feeding, leading to poor weight gain or milk transfer.
- Children: Challenges with transitioning to solids and picky eating behaviors.
- Speech
- Impaired tongue mobility can interfere with the ability to pronounce certain sounds, contributing to speech delays or articulation issues.
- Sleep
- Restrictive oral tissues may contribute to mouth breathing or sleep-disordered breathing, potentially affecting sleep quality and overall health.
- Facial Growth and Development
- Proper tongue posture and movement are essential for the natural development of the palate, jaw, and facial structure. Restriction can lead to narrow arches, dental crowding, and other orthodontic issues.
The Path to Resolution: A Collaborative Approach
Treating tongue and lip ties is about more than just the frenectomy itself. It’s a multifaceted process that often requires collaboration with a team of professionals to ensure long-term success and optimal outcomes.
Our approach includes working with:
- Lactation Consultants: To support breastfeeding and help establish effective feeding techniques.
- Speech and Feeding Therapists: For guidance on improving speech clarity and oral motor skills.
- ENT Specialists: For comprehensive evaluation and care if airway concerns are present.
- Craniosacral Therapists: To address tension and improve mobility in the oral and cranial structures.
- Chiropractors or Bodyworkers: To ensure proper alignment and address compensations in the body related to oral restrictions.
Why Choose Our Practice?
We are committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Our frenectomy procedure is performed with precision and care, ensuring a safe, comfortable experience for you or your child.
If you suspect a tongue or lip tie is affecting your child or your family, contact our office today to schedule a consultation. Together, we can help create a foundation for healthier feeding, speech, sleep, and overall growth.