BEING TONGUE-TIED isn’t just an expression; for many people in fact it’s an actual medical condition, and a similar one is being lip-tied. We all have thin, stretchy pieces of tissue that connect our tongues to the floor of our mouths and our lips to our gums. Sometimes those pieces of tissue are unusually thick or tight, which undoubtedly restricts the movement of the lip or tongue.

Effects of Tongue Tie and Lip Tie

Someone with a tongue tie might not be able to touch the roof of their mouth with their tongue, making it hard to chew, swallow, or pronounce words effectively. Someone with a lip tie might have a big gap between their two front teeth therefore causing a much higher risk of gum recession. Babies with a lip or tongue tie often struggle to latch effectively to breastfeed therefore leading to frustration for the infant and the mother.

The Solution: Frenectomies

The treatment for a lip tie or tongue tie is a frenectomy. Traditionally a quick and simple procedure with a surprisingly short recovery period. The surgery is usually performed by a periodontist or oral surgeon. After the area is numbed, a small incision is made.  The incision releases the tissue thus stopping all of the symptoms. Super easy!

 

All About You Dental Care Can Help!

If you believe you or your child have a lip or tongue tie hence you should schedule a dental appointment. Dr. Lavrisa can then verify it and make a plan for how to correct it. Don’t let it continue to get in the way!

All About You Dental Care loves taking care of our patients’ smiles!