We see infants as early as a day after birth for the revision of an abnormally attached frenulum. Many of our older patients have also benefited from having frenulum revisions performed. We use the latest laser surgery techniques. It is a safe and easy procedure, lasting only a couple of minutes.
Download the Tongue & Lip Tie Paperwork:
The significance of tongue and lip ties and why you should consider correcting them.
Issues for Infant and Mother
Infant – poor latch may result in:
- Colic and excessive gassiness
- Reflux
- Difficulty with adequate milk intake
- Poor weight gain
- Falling asleep on the breast
- Extended nursing episodes
- Unable to sustain a latch
- Unable to develop a deep enough latch
- Unable to hold a pacifier
- Early weaning from the breast
Mother – possible symptoms:
- Difficulty or unable to breastfeed
- Painful compression of nipples
- Mastitis, engorgement, thrush
- Vasospasm
- Anxiety, stress, and fatigue
- Post-partum depression
- Slow weight loss from pregnancy
- Early cessation of lactation
- Bleeding, cracked and flattened nipples
- Low milk supply
- Feelings of guilt
An infant’s inability to breastfeed often results in its mother giving up breastfeeding entirely, as well as being told that the problem is their fault. In reality, the problems may actually result from the tongue and/or upper lip attachments to the rest of the oral structures in a way that is abnormal and makes normal function and mobility difficult or impossible. Many different variations and presentations of tongue and lip ties may occur. It is important to have a clinical exam and review of symptoms with a knowledgeable care provider.
Infant concerns when breastfeeding and mother’s milk is not available:
- Reduced immunity to disease if mother’s milk is not used (pumping helps reduce this concern)
- Increased risk of juvenile type diabetes and allergies
- Increased risk of GI problems
- Increased risk of certain cancers
- Increased risk of heart disease
- Increased risk of obesity as an adult
- Possible Orthodontic problems and facial development
- Increased risk of spinal development abnormalities
- Possible Facial development abnormalities
- Increased risk of SIDS
Concerns for infants when breastfeeding continues with lip and/or tongue issues:
- Inability to sustain a latch and/or painful latch once upper front teeth erupt
- Dental decay on upper front teeth when still nursing
- If tissue cut due to injury, may bleed extensively
Potential problems as an adult:
- Periodontal disease
- Speech problems
- Esthetic problems with smile lines
- Poor oral hygiene
Diagnosis of tongue and lip ties is based on three factors:
- Anatomic and clinical appearance
- Infant and mother’s symptoms
- Ability to function
Advantages of Laser Surgery
Dr. Nate utilizes laser surgery for revisions in the office for the following reasons:
- More precise surgery
- No need to place patient under sedation or to place in an operating room
- Procedure takes less than two minutes in the dental office within the treatment area
- Virtually no chance of infection
- Reduced post-surgical swelling, pain or discomfort
- Significantly reduces risk of any bleeding
- No chance of any allergic or drug reactions, just “laser light” energy used
If you think your infant may have a tongue or lip tie present, please schedule an appointment with Dr. Nate for a consultation.
Seng Pediatric Dentistry
Nathan C. Seng, D.D.S.
2005 St. Charles Street, Suite 1, Jasper IN 47546
p. (812) 634-7409
For more information regarding tongue and lip ties please see the following websites:
http://drghaheri.squarespace.com/
http://www.kiddsteeth.com/dental-topics.php?mode=desktop#breastfeeding_health
https://breastfeedingusa.org/content/article/breastfeeding-information-articles
