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!
