Infant Tongue and Lip Tie
What is a Frenectomy?
Frenectomy is a surgical procedure performed that releases the tissue that can restrict free movement. The procedure corrects a congenital condition when the tongue (lingual) or lip (labial) frenulum is too tight resulting in restriction of function. The restriction can lead to difficulty breastfeeding and other concerns such as dental, digestive and speech issues.
What is a Lip-tie?
A lip tie is an unusually tight upper lip frenum attachment that compromises full lip flanging resulting in a tense upper lip and shallow latching during nursing. Additionally, the tight upper lip may create an area where food/drinks can pool, resulting in constant contact with the front teeth. This can lead to decalcification and dental decay when the milk is not cleaned off of these areas. This same issue can occur when bottle-feeding. If the frenulum attaches too close to the ridge or into the palate, a future diastema (the gap between the teeth) can also occur.
What is a Tongue-tie?
A tongue-tie results when the area where the bottom of the tongue attaches to the lower jaw (frenulum) is tight and restricts the function and mobility of the tongue. When the tongue is elevated, it may appear cupping or heart-shaped. This can result in an inability to get the tongue under the nipple and create a proper suction to draw out the milk. The tongue is a muscle that influences the growth and development of the palate. A tongue-tie can cause a high or vaulted palate which may require treatment later in life. It is possible that as a child grows, a tongue tie can result in speech problems and/or issues with transferring food around the mouth for chewing.
Testimonials
LightScapel
Our office utilizes the latest technology from LightScalpel. This C02 laser is a device that produces a highly concentrated beam of light which vaporizes cleanly and precisely while sealing blood vessels at the same time.
A LightScalpel laser frenectomy is a quick and gentle procedure that, in most cases, is bloodless and requires no sutures.
The American-made LightScalpel laser is FDA-cleared for numerous oral soft-tissue surgical procedures and offers many benefits for patients over traditional methods including: minimized bleeding, less swelling and discomfort, reduced risk of infection, shortened procedure time, and smoother recovery. To learn more about the laser, please visit: www.lightscalpel.com/patient-laser-surgery
We collaborate with local lactation consultants, pediatricians, speech pathologists, and Craniosacral therapists to provide thorough comprehensive treatment.
Please call our office to schedule a consultation. We will be happy to evaluate your child and determine if treatment is needed.
