Does My Child Need A Frenectomy? Recognizing The Signs Of Tongue & Lip Ties
Richard S.

 

This limits the range of motion in the mouth, which can cause problems with feeding and weight gain in young children as well as other problems like speech impairments in older children. Due to this, laser frenectomies are frequently advised to cut these tissue bands, removing tongue and lip bindings. 

First, you may notice that your child has difficulties sticking their tongue all the way out or moving it from side to side. This is because the overdeveloped frenulum interferes with its range of motion.

The main way to recognize tongue ties, though, is related to feeding, particularly breastfeeding. Your child may have problems latching onto the breast, and may take a long time to feed. They may also fall asleep, drool, or “gum” and chew the nipple while feeding.  Some mothers find breastfeeding to be painful due to the extra work an infant needs to do while feeding if he or she has a tongue tie.

These feeding difficulties can also result in difficulties gaining weight. If your child is not gaining weight at the expected rate, this could indicate a tongue tie that’s interfering with their ability to feed properly. 

Recognizing The Signs Of Lip Ties

Lip ties are usually a bit harder than tongue ties to recognize on your own. Similarly to tongue ties, most people notice lip ties when their child has trouble breastfeeding. Lip ties restrict the range of motion of your child’s lips.

This means it’s harder for them to make a tight seal around the nipple and to feed properly. Your baby may be frustrated or fussy while nursing, require long nursing sessions, and have difficulties maintaining a proper latch on the breast while feeding.

Again, this can result in poor overall weight gain in infants. If you notice these issues, consult with your pediatrician right away. Tongue and lip ties can cause feeding issues, but it’s important to rule out other health issues, too.

If a child uses a pacifier or sucks on a finger or thumb teeth may be pushed into the gums by the habit making the appearance of a lip tie. If your child has a habit be sure to let your dentist know so they can properly evaluate your child.

Get A Consultation At a 24/7 Local Dentist And Get The Help You Need In Muscatine!

 

Whether your paediatrician has already diagnosed your child with tongue and/or lip ties, or you recognize any of the aforementioned symptoms, As a pediatric dentist who has attained board certification, 24/7 Local Dentist. may examine your child for tongue and lip bindings and suggest the proper course of action, such as a frenectomy. Don't wait, then. Call us at (833) 220-2448 or reach out to us online to set up an appointment right away.

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