tongue & lip tie (frenectomy)
A tongue or lip tie is a fairly common condition in which the frenulum (the tissue that connects the lip to the gums and the tongue to the front of the mouth) is too short or tight. An untreated lip or tongue tie can affect you and your child in several ways:
Difficulty breastfeeding or bottle-feeding. Babies with tongue or lip ties may have difficulty latching onto the breast or bottle and may not be able to get enough milk, leading to weight gain issues. Mothers of babies with tongue or lip tie issues may also experience pain and soreness during breastfeeding.
Difficulty swallowing, which can lead to choking or gagging.
Difficulty speaking, and pronouncing certain sounds, such as “t,” “d,” “z,” “s,” “th,” “r,” and “l.”
Difficulty eating solid foods, especially those that are sticky or require a lot of chewing.
Gum disease. Tongue or lip ties can make it difficult to clean the teeth and gums, which can lead to gum disease.
Malocclusion. Tongue or lip ties can contribute to a misalignment of the teeth.
Sleep apnea. Ties can increase the risk of sleep apnea, a dangerous condition in which breathing is interrupted during sleeping.
frequently asked questions
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You may not be able to tell if your child has a tongue and/or lip tip by simply looking at it. A diagnosis is based on how the tongue and lip move as well as the child’s symptoms. Tongue and lips are only considered to be “tied” if mobility and function are restricted. Not all ties cause problems and require correction, and each child should be assessed on an individual basis.
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The treatment for a tongue or lip tie is a minor surgical procedure called a frenectomy. This short procedure typically only takes a few minutes. Dr. Amy Augustine, our Board Certified Pediatric Dentist, has specialized training in frenectomies and uses a carbon dioxide laser to release the tissue. This state-of-the-art laser allows for the procedure to be completed quickly with minimal to no bleeding or scarring.
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The best time to get a frenectomy is when the problem is first identified. Babies are generally the best candidates for frenectomies, as their tissues are more elastic and heal more quickly. For older children and adults, the best time will depend on the specific problem being treated. Early treatment can help to prevent or reduce the severity of any problems caused by the tongue or lip tie. It can also help to prevent long-term problems, such as dental malocclusion and sleep apnea.
why choose us
Compassionate Care, Every Step of the Way
We know that visiting the dentist can feel overwhelming for kids—and for parents too. Our team is dedicated to creating a fun, welcoming environment where every child feels safe, relaxed, and cared for.
Specialized for Young Smiles
Our general dentists love working with children and understand the unique needs of growing smiles. From routine cleanings to orthodontic care, we tailor every visit to your child’s comfort, needs, and stage of development.
A Positive Experience That Lasts a Lifetime
The dental experiences kids have today shape their confidence in caring for their health tomorrow. That’s why we focus on making every appointment positive, encouraging, and even fun—with a few extra smiles along the way!