As a new parent, you may have been doing a bunch of reading to learn as much as you can. You may have heard about lip and tongue ties popping up in your circles, but why is there such importance attached to them? It seems like they are more common now than ever before. Should you be worried? Keep reading to learn why this condition seems to be more prevalent than before.
Why Are Lip and Tongue Ties an Issue?
In short, a lip and tongue tie occurs when a baby is born with a thick or tight tissue (known as the frenulum) under their lip or tongue. It can limit movement and cause a myriad of issues when nursing and during speech development. Many infants who have this condition may have trouble latching, or you might hear a clicking (or popping) sound while they are feeding.
Are They Becoming More Common?
While the number of lip and tongue tie diagnoses is rising, it’s debated whether it’s becoming a more common issue or just more recognized. In the past, if a child had a mild tie, parents may have brushed it off as a minor issue when feeding. Today, there is an emphasis on spotting the signs of this condition and fixing them as soon as possible. As more people become aware of them, the more kids are diagnosed and get the treatment they deserve.
How Are Lip and Tongue Ties Treated?
If you are worried about a lip or tongue tie, then talking to your child’s pediatrician or pediatric dentist can help confirm whether or not this is an issue for your little one. In some cases, treatment may not be needed, but addressing it early can help prevent problems in the future.
A frenectomy is a common procedure that helps release the tie quickly. It’s safe and easy, as many dentists use a soft tissue laser that is designed for comfort and promotes faster healing. In fact, your baby will be able to breastfeed almost immediately after!
You know your infant the best, so if you feel that something isn’t right or find that feeding takes a little extra work, then it’s worth mentioning it to a professional. Getting an early diagnosis can help you get the relief you need and your baby set up for a happy smile for a lifetime.
About the Practice
At Waterford Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics of Dublin, we want to give your child a positive dental experience, so they are set up for oral health success in the future. We understand how a lip and tongue tie can cause some problems, so we are happy to help you fix it using state-of-the-art technology. By using a soft tissue laser, we can ensure a precise and effective treatment. If your baby has trouble latching when nursing, schedule an appointment or call us at (925) 803-6880.