5 Tongue Tie Symptoms Parents Should Observe in Newborns

A tongue tie, also known as ankyloglossia, is a condition in which the tissue under the tongue is too short or thick, restricting the movement of the tongue. It can make it difficult to move the tongue from side to side and interfere with breastfeeding, speech, and other activities.

In some cases, a tongue tie may need to be surgically corrected. Also called frenuloplasty, it is a simple procedure performed to loosen the lingual frenulum, performed under local anesthesia. But which symptoms should parents observe if their children have tongue ties?

1. Poor Latch

Breastfeeding can be a beautiful and rewarding experience for both the mother and the baby. However, it can also be frustrating and challenging for both parties if the baby is not latching on correctly. One of the most common causes of poor latching is tongue tie.

A poor latch is one of the most common symptoms of tongue tie. A baby may have difficulty opening their mouth wide enough to latch onto the breast or have trouble staying latched on. A doctor or lactation consultant can evaluate your baby and determine the best action.

2. Clicking Noise

A clicking noise when a few different things can cause breastfeeding. Air bubbles may cause it in the baby’s mouth, or it could be caused by a short frenulum (the band of tissue that connects the tongue to the bottom of the mouth).

In either case, the clicking noise can be distracting and uncomfortable for the mother and baby. If you are experiencing this issue, it is essential to consult a doctor or lactation consultant to determine the cause and find a solution.

3. Falling Asleep While Feeding

Falling asleep while breastfeeding is common, particularly for newborns and infants. In most cases, it is a natural and normal part of the process. However, if your baby frequently falls asleep while feeding, it could be a sign that they are not getting enough milk.

If this is the case, speaking to a lactation consultant is vital to ensure your baby gets the nutrition they need. It is also essential to ensure that your baby is comfortable and relaxed while feeding, which can help prevent them from falling asleep.

4. Painful Breastfeeding

If breastfeeding is painful, consulting with a health professional is necessary. Various factors, including incorrect latch, blocked ducts, and tongue tie, can cause painful breastfeeding. They can help you identify the pain’s cause and advise how to address it.

Lactation specialists can help you identify the pain’s cause and advise on alleviating it. If the pain persists, seeking medical attention as soon as possible is essential, as this could be a sign of a more serious issue.

5. Mouth Breathing or Snoring

Mouth breathing or snoring can indicate a more severe issue, such as tongue ties. A doctor can perform a physical exam to determine if a tongue tie is present and other possible causes of mouth breathing and snoring. Sometimes, a tongue tie can be corrected with a simple procedure. After the process, the patient will no longer experience speaking, swallowing, or breathing difficulties.

Conclusion

Tongue ties may seem simple, but they can result in more severe health problems. The condition can interfere with everyday activities, such as eating, speaking, and breastfeeding. Sometimes, a tongue tie can cause the tongue to appear heart-shaped when sticking out.

Treatment for a tongue tie typically involves a procedure known as a frenectomy. The method consists in cutting the tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth, allowing the tongue to move more freely. It can be done using a laser or a scalpel, usually taking just a few minutes.

Lexington Smile Studio is a cosmetic dentist in Lexington helping patients correct oral issues. We offer laser procedures to repair tongue ties, making our patients feel better while retaining function. Learn more about the best exercises after lip tie release by browsing our website today.

5 Reasons Why Veneers Are a Great Investment for Your Smile

A smile is one of the most important features that a person can possess. It is a crucial part of our first impression and can even impact our self-esteem and confidence. However, only some have great teeth; sometimes, even with regular brushing and flossing, we may still find ourselves stained, chipped or misshapen teeth. 

This is where veneers come in. Veneers are thin, customized shells placed on your teeth’ front surface to improve their appearance. Here are five great reasons to consider veneers:

1. Veneers Can Give You a Hollywood Smile

Who doesn’t want a perfect smile like those of Hollywood stars? With veneers, you can achieve that dream smile you’ve always wanted. Dental veneers can correct various aesthetic issues, including discolored, chipped, and misshapen teeth. They can also close gaps between teeth and make them appear straighter. Veneers can give you a natural look; no one will even know you have them.

2. Veneers Are Easy to Maintain

One of the best things about veneers is that they are easy to maintain. They don’t require special care or attention, and you can treat them like your natural teeth. All you need to do is brush, floss regularly, and have regular dental check-ups. Good oral hygiene allows your veneers to last up to 10 years.

3. Veneers Are a Quick Fix

If you’re looking for a quick tooth fix, veneers are the way to go. Veneers can give you a perfect smile in just a few visits to the dentist. Getting veneers involves removing a small amount of your tooth enamel, taking impressions of your teeth, and bonding the veneers to your teeth. The entire process can be completed in just two to three visits to the dentist.

4. Veneers Are a Long-Term Investment

While veneers may seem expensive, they are a long-term investment in your smile and overall oral health. Veneers are made from high-quality materials designed to last many years. They also resist staining, so you won’t have to worry about discoloration over time. Investing in veneers can improve your self-confidence, and it can even open doors to new opportunities in your personal and professional life.

5. Veneers Are a Safe and Effective Solution

Veneers are a safe and effective solution for improving the appearance of your teeth. They are designed to look and feel like your natural teeth and don’t cause discomfort or sensitivity. The process of getting veneers is minimally invasive and doesn’t require any major surgery or recovery time. With the help of a skilled cosmetic dentist, you can achieve the smile of your dreams with veneers.

Setting an Appointment with a Cosmetic Dentist

If you’re considering veneers, you must set an appointment with a cosmetic dentist with experience in this area. A cosmetic dentist can assess your teeth and determine whether veneers are the right solution. They can also help you choose the right type of veneers for your needs and budget. During your appointment, your dentist will take impressions of your teeth and create a customized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.

Conclusion

Veneers are an excellent solution for anyone who wants to improve the appearance of their teeth. They are a quick, easy, and safe solution that can give you a Hollywood smile and boost your self-confidence. You can achieve the perfect smile you’ve always wanted by setting an appointment with a cosmetic dentist. So why wait? Book your appointment today and take the first step towards a brighter, healthier smile.

Are you looking for a cosmetic dentist in Lexington? Look no further than Lexington Smile Studio. We set the standards for exceptional care, providing a full range of dental services for your entire family. Book an appointment today!

What Are the Common Procedures a Cosmetic Dentist Does?

A cosmetic dentist is a professional who enhances the appearance of an individual’s smile. They can perform a variety of procedures, from simple teeth whitening to complete smile makeovers.

Make sure to choose qualified dental professionals to provide you with the care and treatment you need to achieve the smile of your dreams. There are many different procedures that a cosmetic dentist can perform, and the most common ones are described below:

Invisalign

Invisalign is a treatment for teeth that uses clear aligners to move the teeth gradually. The treatment begins with a consultation with an orthodontist or dentist, during which the doctor will examine your teeth and bite and take X-rays and impressions. 

They will then create a treatment plan, which will be used to develop your custom aligners. You will have to wear these aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day, and you will need to replace them every two weeks. The treatment will gradually move your teeth into the desired position.

Tooth Bonding

Tooth bonding is when a tooth-colored resin is applied to the teeth and then hardened with a special light. Bonding can be used to repair chipped or cracked teeth, close gaps between teeth, or change the shape of teeth.

After the bonding process, you must avoid eating hard or sticky foods for the first few days to allow the bonding material to fully set. You should also avoid chewing on ice or other hard objects. In addition, it is essential to brush and floss your teeth as you normally would to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

Tooth Whitening

Tooth whitening can be done in an office or at home. In-office tooth whitening is done by a trained professional and usually takes an hour. The procedure entails applying a bleaching gel to your teeth and activated with a special light. At-home tooth whitening kits are also available and usually take about two weeks to achieve the desired results. No matter which teeth whitening option you choose, you must follow the instructions carefully to avoid damaging your teeth.

Veneers

These can be used to change the color, shape, and size of teeth and are often used to close gaps between teeth. Veneers are also used to protect the teeth from damage and wear.

The first step in getting veneers is to schedule a consultation with a cosmetic dentist. They will examine your teeth during the consultation and discuss your treatment options. If you decide to proceed with veneers, the next step is to have your teeth prepared for the veneers.

If you take good care of them, veneers can typically last for many years. Keep in mind, though, that veneers are not as strong as natural teeth, and they are more susceptible to damage. Therefore, it is important to avoid biting your nails or chewing on hard objects. In addition, you should see your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings to ensure your veneers stay in good condition.

Conclusion

Whether you want to whiten, straighten, or repair damage, a cosmetic dentist has the training and experience to give you the smile you’ve always wanted. There are many procedures a cosmetic dentist can do to improve your smile. If you are interested in exploring your cosmetic dental options, schedule a consultation with a dentist today.

Are you looking for a cosmetic dentist in Lexington? Trust Lexington Smile Studio. Established in 1991 by Dr. Fawn Rosenberg, we set the standards for exceptional care, providing a full range of dental services for your entire family. Our dental services include cosmetic dentistry, prosthodontics, implant dentistry, periodontics, and laser dentistry. Book an appointment.

What is a Frenectomy?: Everything You Need to Know

Frenectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of tissue around the mouth, usually involving the frenulum. It is most commonly used to treat tongue-tie, which is a condition where the tissue connecting the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth is too tight. Frenectomy is a relatively quick and simple outpatient procedure that can help to improve the ability to speak, swallow, and feed.

The frenulum can be located on the upper and lower lips, on the cheeks, and under the tongue. A frenectomy is usually performed by a dentist or oral surgeon. In this guide, we’ll show you everything you need to know about getting a frenectomy.

What is a Frenum?

A frenum is a small fold of tissue that anchors the lip, cheek, or tongue to the gums or jaw bone. It is a band of tissue that attaches the lip or tongue to the gums or jaw bone and is usually made up of muscle fibers, nerves, and blood vessels.

Frena are small pieces of tissue located in the mouth, typically underneath the tongue or in the lips. In some cases, they can become too tight, resulting in difficulty when it comes to swallowing, speaking, and eating.

What is a Frenectomy?

A frenectomy is a surgical procedure that involves removing or releasing a frenum, which is a band of tissue that connects two parts of the body. This type of procedure is most commonly performed on the lips, tongue, and gums. 

The purpose of a frenectomy is to provide more mobility and reduce the tension of the frenum, which can cause pain, difficulty eating, and difficulty speaking. In some cases, a frenectomy may be necessary to correct a congenital defect or to correct a problem that has developed due to certain medical conditions. 

The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia, and the recovery time is usually short. In some cases, it can be done in a matter of minutes, while more complex cases may require several hours. After the procedure, the patient may experience some soreness, swelling, and/or bruising. 

Types of Frenectomy

1) Labial Frenectomy

A labial frenectomy is a surgical procedure that removes tissue from the lips. It can be used to correct issues such as a lip tie or a tongue tie. It is typically performed with local anesthetic in a clinical setting. 

It is a relatively quick and easy procedure that can help improve a person’s ability to speak, eat, and drink. It can also improve facial aesthetics by providing a more symmetrical lip line.

2) Lingual Frenectomy

Lingual frenectomy is a type of frenectomy that involves the removal of a small piece of tissue located on the underside of the tongue, known as the lingual frenulum. The procedure is usually performed in order to improve the patient’s ability to speak and swallow. 

In some cases, it can also help to reduce the risk of dental crowding and malocclusion. Lingual frenectomy is a relatively simple procedure that is generally considered to be safe and effective.

Final Thoughts: Is Frenectomy For You?

Frenectomy may be a good option for you if you are having difficulty speaking, swallowing, or have dental crowding or malocclusion. It is a relatively safe and straightforward procedure that can have a positive impact on your everyday life. However, it is important to consult with your doctor to make sure that this is the right treatment for you.

If you are considering a Frenectomy, Lexington Smile Studio will take care of that for you. We are a cosmetic dentist in Lexington providing the best dental care possible for you. Get in touch with us today to learn how.