Tongue & Lip Tie Procedure

After birth, your infant’s pediatrician may notify you that your child was born with a tongue tie or a lip tie. What is this?

Tongue Tie – a band of connective tissue that attaches the tongue to the floor of the mouth, limiting the tongue’s range of motion.

Lip Tie – a band of connective tissue that attaches the upper lip to the gum line and limits lip movement.

After being notified of a tongue or lip tie in your child, you may have some questions. We have the answers!

Why a Tongue & Lip Tie Procedure Is Needed For Infants

A tongue and lip tie procedure, also known as a frenectomy, is most commonly performed when your child is an infant. Some of the most important reasons why this procedure is needed include:

• Improve breastfeeding complications
• Prevent speech problems caused by a tongue tie
• Reduce the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, or other oral health issues
• Prevent lip and tongue movement limitations

If a tongue or lip tie is ignored when the child is an infant, it can cause many problems as they get older.

How Soon Should This Be Done?

While the best time for a frenectomy can vary based on the patient and their health history, it is most recommended that frenectomies are completed when the patient is an infant.

Babies can undergo frenectomy treatment quickly and with little pain or discomfort at a few weeks old. There is usually no aftercare needed for infants and they can resume breastfeeding or formula immediately after.

Your pediatric dentist can recommend a treatment plan once you bring in your child for a visit.