What You Must Know about Lip Tie and Lip Tie Removal

Lip tie is a condition in which the tissue that attaches the upper lip to the gums is too tight. It can make it difficult for babies to latch on to the breast and cause pain for the mother when breastfeeding.

Lip tie is not a well-known condition, but it is relatively common, affecting around 4% of babies. It is more common in boys than girls. Suppose you are breastfeeding and think your baby may have a lip tie. In that case, it is essential to see a lactation consultant or other healthcare professional who can assess the condition and advise you on how to manage it best.

When it comes to your baby’s health, you want to ensure you are as informed as possible. If you believe your child is suffering from a lip tie, learning key lip tie facts is a step in the right direction.

Lip ties can cause several problems for infants and children, including difficulty breastfeeding, difficulty latching onto a bottle, and speech difficulties. If you suspect your child has a lip tie, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to get a proper diagnosis. Most importantly, your dentist can help you determine if they are at the right age for lip tie removal.

What Is Lip Tie?

Lip tie is a condition that can affect both infants and adults. It occurs when the tissue connecting the upper lip to the gums (the labial frenulum) is too short or thick. It can cause problems with breastfeeding, speaking, and eating.

Lip ties can also make it difficult to clean the teeth properly, leading to tooth decay and gum disease. Sometimes, a lip tie may also cause snoring or sleep apnea. 

Lip tie removal often involves a simple procedure to release the frenulum. It can be done by a dentist, ENT specialist, or oral surgeon. In some cases, a laser may be used to release the frenulum. If you or your child has lip tie, talk to your doctor or dentist about the best treatment option.

Is Your Child in Danger from Lip Tie?

There are four types of lip ties, ranging from mild to severe. The severity of the condition will determine the treatment options. A mild lip tie may not need any treatment. However, if you have difficulty breastfeeding, you may consult a lactation specialist because they can help you with positioning and latch techniques.

If your baby has a moderate or severe lip tie, your doctor may recommend a lip tie removal. It is a simple outpatient operation that can be done with local anesthesia. After the treatment, you must take some precautions to avoid infection. 

Most babies do well after the procedure and can breastfeed without any problems. In rare cases, the lip tie may reattach itself. If this happens, you may need to have the operation repeated.  

Talk to your doctor if you are concerned that your child may have a lip tie. They can help you determine if your child needs to be seen by a specialist.

Conclusion

Lip tie removal is a simple procedure that can significantly impact a baby’s quality of life. When a baby has a lip tie, it can interfere with their ability to breastfeed, which can lead to a host of other problems. 

While some parents may wait and see if their baby’s lip tie causes problems, others may opt to have the procedure done as a preventative measure. Several experienced and qualified providers can perform this procedure, so parents should not hesitate to seek help if they think their baby may benefit from the treatment.

If you are considering lip tie removal for your baby, you must consult Lexington Smile Studio. We will diagnose the level of severity of your baby’s lip tie so that we can determine the best treatment. Schedule an appointment now!

A Quick Helpful Guide on the Stages of Gum Disease

When one thinks of gum disease, one immediately thinks of one condition with a single set of symptoms and few alternatives for its cure. However, gum disease is a general term cosmetic dentists use to identify a condition caused by an expansion of plaque, a dense film of bacteria that forms on the teeth and gums. And if left untreated, it can contribute to tooth loss, pain, and infection.

If you’re concerned that you may have gum disease, you might be curious about how to identify the stage you could be in, what you can do to stop it, and what type of professional assistance you should look for. No worries because this article explains everything you need to know.

 The Different Stages of Gum Disease 

Simply put, there are two different gum diseases: gingivitis and periodontitis. While gingivitis is always dubbed as the mild stage of gum disease, periodontitis is a more complex form and is considered irreversible. It is broken down into four sub-stages.

Gingivitis

Cosmetic dentists define gingivitis as a condition where the gums are swollen and red and may bleed easily due to inflammation. The buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth and gums causes this. Don’t worry, though, because gingivitis can be treated and reversed with improved oral hygiene and regular professional cleanings.

Periodontitis Stage 1: Initial

If gingivitis is not immediately treated, one can assume it will progress to periodontitis. Initial-stage periodontitis is characterized by a slight deepening of the pockets between the teeth and gums, as well as minor bone loss. Treatment at this stage typically consists of professional cleanings and antibiotics to help control the infection.

Periodontitis Stage 2: Moderate

The main difference between the initial and second stages of periodontitis is the amount of gum and bone damage. Moderate periodontitis is characterized by deeper pockets between the teeth and gums and more significant bone loss. Treatment at this stage may include scaling and root planing, antibiotics, or gum surgery.

Periodontitis Stage 3: Advanced 

Advanced-stage periodontitis is the most severe form of the disease. At this stage, the pockets between the teeth and gums are very deep, and the bone loss is extensive. The treatments cosmetic dentists might perform for advanced periodontitis may include gum surgery, bone grafts, and other procedures to help restore the health of the gums and bone.

Periodontitis Stage 4: Severe With Potential for Loss of All the Teeth 

The worst-case scenario for periodontitis is stage 4, which is severe periodontitis. This is when the disease has progressed to the point where the teeth and gums are severely damaged, and the risk of losing all teeth is very high.

In this case, the treatments may include more extensive surgeries such as guided tissue regeneration, pocket reduction surgery, and bone grafts. There are also scenarios when the only option for cosmetic dentists is to dispose of all teeth and replace them with dentures or dental implants.

 Final Thoughts

Gum disease is a progressive condition requiring immediate attention and treatment. While you can manage it with proper dental hygiene, regular dental visits, and thorough oral care, it is important to be aware of the early signs of gum disease and to consult with your dentist to discuss treatment options as soon as possible. 

Lexington Smile Studio has a team of reliable and equipped cosmetic dentists that can help you with your gum disease. We ensure that our patients receive the best treatments available to help them restore their oral health and achieve the smile they’ve always dreamed of. Schedule an appointment with us today!

The Common and Surprising Problems Caused by Lip Tie

Lip tie happens when the labial frenulum, a strip of tissue between the upper lip and the upper gums, is unusually short or tight. It can cause problems with breastfeeding, making it challenging for the baby to latch on to the breast. It can also cause speech development problems, making it difficult for the child to make certain sounds.

This condition affects 4% of babies and is more common in boys than girls. If you think your child suffers from this, you must see a doctor or other healthcare provider to get a diagnosis. Its treatment is typically lip tie removal, and it is critical to have the procedure done by a qualified surgeon.

Lip ties may seem harmless, but very few parents and medical professionals know their harmful effects. It can cause several problems for babies, including difficulty breastfeeding, speech problems, and dental problems.

What Causes a Lip-Tie?

This condition occurs when the strip of skin that connects the upper lip to the gum is too thick or too tight. It can make it difficult for the baby to open their mouth wide enough to breastfeed correctly. It can also cause problems with speech development, as the child may have difficulty making certain sounds. Additionally, this can lead to dental issues, as the teeth may not come in correctly.

Its most prominent symptom is the appearance of the lips. They may look abnormally close to the teeth, or they may be touching the teeth. In some cases, the lip may even be covering the teeth. Other symptoms include difficulty nursing, difficulty eating, and even speech problems. It can also cause a clicking sound when the lips are moved.

If you or your child has this, learning the symptoms is a big step toward diagnosing and correcting it. Early diagnosis and lip tie removal can help avoid many associated problems.

How Flipping the Lip Can Fix This

Lip tie, or ankyloglossia, is a condition in which the tissue that attaches the tongue to the floor of the mouth is too tight. It can interfere with a baby’s breastfeeding ability and cause other problems.

One way to tell if your baby has one is by flipping their lip up. A tie will look like a small, thin cord of tissue if you can see a tie. If unsure, you can ask your doctor or a lactation consultant to check.

If your baby does have this condition, there are some things you can do to help your little one breastfeed. You can try different positions, such as cradle hold or side-lying, to make it easier for them to latch on. You can also use a nipple shield to help them get a better seal.

If you still have trouble, consider seeing a lactation consultant or speech therapist. They can help you and your baby learn different techniques to make breastfeeding easier. They will also determine if lip tie removal is suitable for your baby. 

Conclusion

Several problems can arise from having a lip tie for babies. These problems can include difficulty breastfeeding, problems with dental development, and an increased risk for speech difficulties. While some of these problems can be mitigated with early intervention and proper care, others may persist into childhood and beyond. Parents must be aware of these potential problems to seek their child’s help and support.

If you are considering lip tie removal for your baby, you should visit Lexington Smile Studio soon. We will diagnose your baby before we recommend anything. So, make an appointment now!

9 Common Things People Ask about LANAP Laser Gum Procedure

LANAP laser gum procedure is a minimally invasive way to treat gum disease. It is performed using a specialized laser that targets and removes infected tissue while leaving healthy tissue unharmed. The procedure effectively treats both early and progressive stages of gum disease.

People often have questions about the LANAP laser gum procedure, its benefits, and whether it suits them. Here are answers to six of the most common questions about this gum disease treatment.

1. How Does LANAP Laser Gum Procedure Work?

The LANAP laser targets and removes diseased gum tissue while leaving healthy tissue unharmed. The laser energy vaporizes the diseased tissue, which is then removed by suction. This leaves a clean, healthy surface for the regrowth of healthy gum tissue.

2. Is LANAP Laser Gum Procedure Right for Me?

Your dentist may recommend a LANAP laser gum procedure if you have gum disease. The best approach to determine if this treatment is proper for you is to consult a dentist who offers this procedure.

3. How Does LANAP Compare to Traditional Gum Surgery?

Traditional gum surgery involves making an incision in the gums and removing diseased tissue. This can be a more invasive and painful procedure than LANAP. Additionally, traditional gum surgery often requires a more extended recovery period.

4. What Are the Benefits of LANAP?

There are many benefits to LANAP, including the fact that it is minimally invasive, can be performed in a single visit to the dentist, and does not require sutures or stitches. Additionally, LANAP is effective in treating periodontal disease and can help improve the gums’ overall health.

5. Who Is a Good Candidate for LANAP?

Most people with gum disease are good candidates for LANAP. However, your dentist will need to evaluate your specific case to determine if LANAP is the best treatment option.

6. What Is the Recovery Period Like after LANAP?

Most people experience minimal discomfort and swelling after LANAP. You can return to your normal activities on the same day as your procedure.

7. What Are the Risks Associated with LANAP?

As with any surgical procedure, there are some risks associated with LANAP. However, the chances are typically meager, and the process is considered safe. Some of the potential risks include bleeding, infection, and discomfort.

8. How Much Does LANAP Cost?

The cost of LANAP can vary, revolving around several factors, which include the severity of the periodontal disease, the number of teeth that need to be treated, and the LANAP dentist’s location. The procedure can cost anywhere from $2000 to $4000.

9. What Should I Expect During & After LANAP Treatment?

LANAP dentist will inject you with a local anesthetic to desensitize the treatment area during treatment. The procedure itself takes about two hours. After LANAP treatment, you may experience some soreness and tenderness in the treatment area. 

Your LANAP dentist will give you specific instructions on how to care for your mouth following the procedure. It is essential to follow these instructions carefully to ensure proper healing.

Conclusion

The LANAP laser gum procedure is a safe and effective gum disease treatment. It is a minimally invasive operation that can be performed in a single office visit. The LANAP laser gum procedure is an option for traditional gum surgery. It is less painful and has a shorter recovery time. Most dental insurance plans cover the LANAP laser gum procedure.

Lexington Smile Studio is a top-notch dental care provider that provides a wide range of services for your entire family. Our LANAP dentists in Lexington, MA, are highly skilled, experienced, and dedicated to providing you with the best care. If you are looking for outstanding dental care, book an appointment today.

Everything You Need to Know Before Having Dental Implants

Dental implants are a popular option amongst patients looking to improve their smile or fix problems with missing teeth.

But before you become a candidate for treatment, it is important that you know everything there is to know about the dental implant process.

This will make it easier to prevent misunderstandings between yourself and the dentist and avoid any possible complications during the procedure.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know regarding dental implants so you can feel confident in your decision.

Who Can Have Dental Implants?

When it comes to dental implants, one of the most common questions is “Who can have them?”

The answer is simple: anyone with enough bone and gum tissue to support a dental implant. However, some factors can affect whether someone is suitable for dental implants.

For example, if you have gum disease or other conditions that prevent your gums from healing properly, then you may not be able to have a dental implant.

What to Do Before the Procedure?

Before you get a dental implant, it’s important to do some research. This will help ensure that you are fully informed about the process and understand your options.

You should also ensure that you have a dental plan in place, as this can help cover the cost of the implant. Dental implants can be expensive, so it’s important to be prepared. 

Next, you will need to find a dentist who specializes in placing implants. It’s essential to look for someone with experience and good ratings.

Finally, you should make an appointment with your dentist. They will examine your teeth and jawbone at this appointment to determine if dental implants are right for you. If they are, they can schedule you for the procedure.

During your appointment, also make sure to ask your dentist what to do before the procedure. Ask if you need to get any tests done and if there are any medications that you should stop taking.

What to Do After Your Dental Implants?

After dental implants, it’s essential to know what to do next. Here are a few tips to help you along the way.

1) Take Care of Your Mouth

It’s important to keep in mind that dental implants are foreign objects in your mouth, so you need to take care of them. Ensure to brush and floss regularly, and visit your dentist at least once a year for an exam.

2) Avoid Tooth-Biting Activities

After getting dental implants, one of the biggest mistakes people make is biting down on hard foods like carrots or apples (or even harder foods like nuts). While it’s tempting to bite into things to test how well your new teeth work, avoid doing this until your oral surgeon gives you the go-ahead. You can also talk with your doctor about wearing a night guard while sleeping if you feel like grinding too much at night.

3) Use the Right Hygiene Products

If you’re using toothpaste or mouthwash after dental implants, make sure that it has fluoride—this will help protect against bacteria and decay.

4) Listen to What Your Dentist Says

Your dentist will give you specific instructions on how to care for your implants. Listen to their advice and follow it, even if it’s inconvenient. If they tell you not to eat certain foods or drink certain liquids, don’t do it—even if it makes your mouth feel weird at first.

Conclusion

Fixing your smile can be done in many ways, and we hope this article has helped you determine whether or how dental implants might help you.

We’d love to tell you more about the process. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact Lexington Smile Studio. We are an award-winning cosmetic dentistry in Lexington that can help you find the right solution.

Some of the Most Efficient Ways to Prevent Yellow Teeth

Healthy, appealing smiles are common amongst people with pearly white teeth. However, there are many who struggle with self-esteem because of their yellow teeth. The thing is, having yellow teeth can definitely be avoided if you know how.

If not, we’re here to discuss how to prevent them overall with some helpful tips below.

1. Brush Your Teeth at Least Twice a Day

One of the most vital parts of your mouth is your teeth; if you don’t brush them often, it can be difficult to keep them white and healthy. You can achieve having the pearly whites that you want by investing the required time in brushing it with high-quality toothpaste at least twice a day. 

Most dentists even advise their patients to do so for at least two minutes. Use gentle bristles; avoid using rough ones, as they could harm the enamel on your teeth.

2. Avoid Consuming Drinks That May Stain Your Enamel

Red wine and coffee are just two of the beverages that might damage the enamel. They are able to stain it because of the acid in their composition. Besides that, tomatoes and citrus fruits are two examples of foods that also contain acids. Try to avoid drinking any of these beverages to get the whitest possible teeth.

Black Coffee

The biggest problem is the dark color, which causes the yellowing of the teeth. The coffee has a thick, creamy consistency and, as was previously indicated, contains hazardous acids. If you dislike drinking water, you can switch to black tea or green tea. You may even enhance your coffee with green tea because it contains less acid.

Fruit Juices

While some fruits are really good for you, they don’t do much to whiten your teeth. The enamel will become stained more quickly with those that contain natural acid than with other drinks. If you adore drinking fruit juices, as described in the previous statement, you will have to give them up.

Red Wine

Wine’s acidic composition is what causes it to discolor enamel. Red wine has more acid than other types of wine; therefore, drinking red wine will discolor your teeth and harm the enamel. There is no reason why you shouldn’t consume white wine because the majority of their known brands will have lower acid content than others.

3. Limit Your Consumption of Sugary Drinks and Sweets

Sweet foods like candy, cakes, cookies, fruit juices, etc., can yellow and darken your teeth. You might need to refrain from eating sweets for a few days if you want to whiten your teeth quickly.

4. Take Regular Visits to the Dentist

As part of their routine procedure, the dentist will check and clean your teeth after each appointment. You may be brushing and flossing your teeth frequently, but there may still be a slight film of germs that typically accumulate around your teeth. Be sure to discuss your routine with your dentist so they will know the right procedure to apply on your next visit.

5. Avoid Smoking and Drinking as Much as Possible

Cigarette smoking can definitely discolor and yellow your teeth. Excessive alcohol consumption may also cause your teeth to become stained and eventually yellow.

It may even cause bad breath, which is why regular smokers and drinkers should think twice about brushing their teeth the right away.

6. Remember to Replace Your Toothbrush after Frequent Use

You should swap out your toothbrush every three months if you want to have whiter teeth. The bristles on your toothbrush will wear out and begin to deteriorate if you don’t do this. Additionally, bacteria from your toothbrush can enter your mouth and cause bad breath and yellowing of the teeth.

Conclusion

Understanding the underlying reason for yellow teeth is necessary before you can even whiten them effectively. Have you been drinking too much black coffee? Do you frequently smoke? Finding the source of the issue will make it much easier for you to address it overall.

That said, why not deal with a qualified dentist? Depending on the degree of tooth discoloration, the dentist will carefully examine your teeth and recommend a course of action. They’ll even offer to whiten your teeth through a procedure and provide you with advice on how to keep them that way.

If you are looking for an institution that offers cosmetic dentistry in Lexington, look no further than our expertise here at Lexington Smile Studio. Our dental services include cosmetic dentistry, prosthodontics, implant dentistry, periodontics, and laser dentistry. Call us today to book your very first dental cleaning session with us.

Dispelling 7 Common Myths and Falsehoods About Tongue Tie

Dispelling 7 Common Myths and Falsehoods About Tongue Tie

Tongue tie, or ankyloglossia, is a condition that occurs when the tongue is tethered to the floor of the mouth by a thin strip of tissue. This can make it difficult to move the tongue, which can cause problems with eating, speaking, and oral hygiene. Tongue tie is relatively common, occurring in about 4 percent of babies. There are several myths and misconceptions about tongue tie that can cause parents to worry unnecessarily.

Here are seven common myths about tongue tie, and the truth behind them.

1. The Tongue Tie Will Stretch Itself Out

One common myth about tongue tie is that the condition will resolve itself over time. However, this is not the case. The tissue that tethers the tongue to the floor of the mouth is very strong and will not stretch out on its own. In fact, the tongue may actually become more tethered as the child grows, as the tissue becomes thicker and more fibrous.

2. The Tongue Tie Babies Have No Problem Swallowing Food

Another myth about tongue tie is that babies with the condition can still swallow food normally. However, this is not always the case. tongue tie can cause difficulty with breast or bottle feeding, as the baby may not be able to latch on properly or may have difficulty sucking. This can lead to poor weight gain and failure to thrive.

3. Treating Tongue Ties is a New Concept

While tongue tie surgery is a relatively new procedure, the condition itself is not new. tongue tie has been described in medical literature for centuries, and there are records of tongue tie surgery dating back to the 1800s.

4. Posterior Tongue Tie Isn’t Real

Posterior tongue tie is a condition in which the tongue is tethered to the back of the mouth, rather than the floor. While this condition is not as well-known as anterior tongue tie, it is just as real and can cause similar problems.

5. Everyone Gets a Laser Treatment

Laser surgery is the most common treatment for tongue tie, but it is not appropriate for everyone. In some cases, a simple frenectomy (surgical release of the tongue tie) may be all that is needed. Your child’s doctor will determine the best treatment option based on the severity of the tongue tie and your child’s individual needs.

6. Tongue Tie Doesn’t Cause Snoring in Adults

Tongue tie can cause snoring or sleep apnea in adults when the tongue is unable to move freely, obstructing airflow and causing the soft palate to collapse. Many adults with tongue tie have never been diagnosed and have no idea that their tongue tie could be the cause of their snoring or sleep apnea.

7. Tongue Tie Can Be Treated With Scissors

A frenectomy is the most common treatment for tongue tie, and it is usually done with a laser. In some cases, a simple frenectomy (surgical release of the tongue tie) may be all that is needed. Your child’s doctor will determine the best treatment option based on the severity of the tongue tie and your child’s individual needs.

Conclusion

There are many myths and misconceptions about tongue tie. Tongue tie does not necessarily cause problems with breastfeeding, and it can often be treated successfully. If you are concerned that your child may have a tongue tie, it is best to speak to a healthcare professional for advice.

Schedule a session at Lexington Smile Studio today for safe CO2 laser for tongue tie! We use exceptional care standards through our full range of dental services: cosmetic, prosthodontics, implants, periodontics, and laser!