Tongue and Lip Tie Laser Frenectomies

What is a Tongue-Tie or Lip-Tie?

A tongue-tie or lip-tie is an excessive attachment of the frenum, resulting in a short, tight, thick, or broad frenum that limits the tongue and lip's normal mobility and function. The tongue and lips are a very complex group of muscles that are important for all oral functions. As a consequence, having a tongue-tie or lip-tie can lead to issues with nursing, bottle feeding, sleep, speech, dental, and solid feeding.

Signs and Symptoms of a Tongue-Tie or Lip-Tie in Newborns

Baby's Issues

  • Shallow or difficulty latching
  • Slips off the nipple
  • Poor weight gain
  • Clicking or smacking noises
  • Gassy, colicky baby due to air swallowing during feeding
  • More frequent feedings
  • Fatigue during feeding, baby falls asleep
  • Arching the back and pushing away
  • Gumming and chewing on the breast
  • Reflux, spit-ups and/or frequent vomiting
  • Lip blisters
  • Frequent hiccups
  • Unable to hold a pacifier or use a bottle

Mother's Issues

  • Painful nursing
  • Cracked, blistered, and bleeding nipples
  • Lipstick or inverted nipple
  • Plugged ducts or mastitis
  • Gummed, flattened nipples
  • Incomplete breast drainage
  • Reduced milk supply

Signs and Symptoms of Tongue-Tie or Lip-Tie in Toddler and Older Children

Children with untreated restrictive tongue and lip ties can eventually develop compensatory behaviors which may result in the following complications:

  • Mouthbreathing
  • Snoring
  • Restless sleep
  • Sleep Related Breathing Disorder and Sleep Apnea
  • Propensity to allergies
  • Food and texture aversions
  • Pocketing food in cheeks
  • Gagging or choking
  • Bloating, Constipation and reflux
  • Delayed speech or problems with certain letters or sounds
  • Lisp
  • Difficulty talking fast
  • Migraines
  • Neck and back pain
  • Forward or slumped posture

Treatment

The decision to correct the structural anomaly can only be achieved after a comprehensive evaluation of the medical history, feeding history, signs and symptoms, and an intraoral exam of the baby or patient. The procedure may be performed as early as few days after birth all the way into adulthood. However, the sooner it is addressed, the fewer compensatory issues the child is likely to develop.

At Happy Grins Pediatric Dentistry, we use LightScalpel CO2 laser for lip and tongue tie frenectomy treatments. The LightScalpel is a non-touch, cold laser that allows for a quick and gentle release without sedation or general anesthesia. There is little to no bleeding, and sutures are not required. The LightScalpel Laser sterilizes the wound and surrounding tissue, promoting rapid healing and minimizing the risk of infection.

Comprehensive Support

Because tongue-ties and lip-ties can cause so many secondary symptoms, we offer a team approach to our treatments. We work with a team of specialists, including pediatricians, lactation consultants, speech therapists, chiropractors and myofunctional therapists to provide the comprehensive care your family deserves.

If you suspect your child has a tongue-tie or lip-tie, call us today to schedule a comprehensive evaluation with Dr. Patty

Phone Number
352.653.1600
Email Address
Office Address
17319 Pagonia Rd. Suite 113,
Clermont FL 34711

Hours:
Mon - Thu: 8 am - 5 pm

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