Tongue and Lip-Tie’s cause a lot of stress on new mom’s who are unsure of what is causing their baby, and possibly themself, so much pain. Dr. Forrester wanted to help free children from any speech, eating, or orthodontic problems caused by a tongue or lip-tie.
What is a Lip and Tongue-Tie?
A lip-tie is when the labial (lip) frenulum, the piece of tissue that attaches the upper lip to the gum, is connected and very tight. Often times this restricts the mobility of the lip and mouth. Essentially there is an extra layer of skin on the lip that is attached to the gums and will prevent lip movement. This will make breastfeeding very difficult.
A tongue-tie is very similar but is where the tongue’s movement is limited by the frenulum between the tongue and the floor of the mouth. If your child’s tongue-tie is left untreated, it can develop problems with their mouth and will restrict mobility. Both a lip and tongue-tie will make breastfeeding and speech difficult.
Common side effects for the mom of a lip or tongue-tied baby are:
- Painful nursing
- Poor latch
- Poor breast drainage
- Extended feedings (more than 30 minutes)
- Cracked or distorted nipples
Some of the common side effects for the baby with a tongue or lip-tie are:
- Poor latch
- Continues to fall asleep while feeding
- Frequent feeding
- Cries often/fussy or frustrated when feeding
- Making clicking sounds
- Poor weight gain
- Biting on the nipples
- Mouth cannot open wide
- Milk blister on the lips
Why is the Procedure Valuable?
A Frenectomy is the removal of the tissue or tight frenulum under the tongue or upper lip. Not every child with difficulty nursing or with speech needs a frenectomy. Dr. Forrester will evaluate your child’s mouth to ensure the procedure is appropriate for your child. During a thorough exam, He will look at the underside of the lip or tongue to assess the child’s needs. From there, he will walk you through the next steps.
Frenectomy is a valuable procedure because it can positively impact a child’s eating, speech, and even future orthodontic problems. Now, more than ever, parents are deciding to see a certified doctor to perform a frenectomy to help their babies breastfeed. The procedure is very safe and has a very fast recovery time! The earlier in life you bring your child in, the fewer side affects they will have. If you are worried your baby or toddler may have a tongue or lip-tie, call the office today to schedule an appointment!
What Does the Certification Mean?
As a Board Certified Pediatric Dentist, Dr. Forrester has already demonstrated his commitment to ongoing excellence and continuing education for the benefit of the children (and the smiles) in Conway and the surrounding communities. This new certification is just one part of his commitment to understanding the needs of his patients and to making sure that he is utilizing the most up to date technology and knowledge.
The tongue, gums, and other oral tissue have a remarkable impact on the health of your teeth as well as your overall oral health. By taking these classes with Tongue-Tied Academy, our pediatric dentist can better understand both circumstances that lead to and the procedure itself. Let us help free your child of their tongue and lip-tie issues. Dr. Aaron Forrester serves the Conway, Arkansas area and beyond.