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!
