As a parent, you want the best for your child’s health and development. Naturally, you hope for your child to be able to avoid unnecessary procedures. Therefore, you might wonder if professional treatment for their lip or tongue tie is really necessary. Will the problem go away on its own? This blog post explains what you need to know.
What Are Lip and Tongue Ties?
Lip and tongue ties are structural defects in the oral tissues that are present at birth. They occur when certain tissues in the mouth, known as frenula, are unusually tight or short. This restricts the natural movement of the lips or tongue. As a result, children may experience difficulty with feeding, speech, and oral hygiene.
Do Lip and Tongue Ties Go Away on Their Own?
It is important for you to know that lip and tongue ties do not resolve naturally. These conditions are structural, meaning the tissue will not stretch or dissolve over time. The restriction will remain there until the offending tissues are intentionally modified via professional care.
The belief that children can simply “grow out of” a lip or tongue tie is a myth. The anatomical limitation will persist, and it can continue to cause problems as long as it exists.
Can Children Adapt?
Some children find ways to adapt to the presence of a lip or tongue tie. The ability to adjust depends on the severity of the restriction and the child’s unique habits and anatomy. Examples of adaptation include:
- A mild tongue tie may result in few noticeable symptoms, allowing your child to eat and speak with little difficulty.
- Children sometimes develop compensatory swallowing or speech strategies, which can temporarily mask their condition
- In some cases, problems only become apparent later in life, such as during language learning or when dental issues arise.
It is essential to recognize that adaptation does not mean the problem has disappeared. Compensatory behaviors may lead to other complications, such as muscle fatigue, improper jaw development, or persistent speech difficulties. Even if your child seems to be coping well, underlying issues can still affect their overall well-being.
Benefits of Treatment at Any Age
Seeking professional treatment for a lip or tongue tie offers many advantages, regardless of your child’s age. Some of the benefits include:
- Improved breastfeeding or bottle-feeding efficiency
- Enhanced speech clarity and language development
- Better oral hygiene, which can reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease
- Relief from chronic jaw pain or muscle tension
- Greater self-esteem and social confidence
- Improved breathing, especially during sleep
Treatment is usually quick and involves minimal discomfort. Modern techniques, such as soft tissue lasers, allow for safe and effective correction of lip and tongue ties. Before you know it, your child may finally be free of their oral restrictions and able to truly thrive!
Meet the Practice
At Waterford Pediatrics & Orthodontics, our team features three highly skilled pediatric dentists: Drs. Adriana Rosato, Esther Chung, and Sona Gill. They work together to provide top-quality lip and tongue tie treatment with the help of advanced soft tissue laser technology. To learn more about us and how we may be able to serve your family, contact our office at 925-803-6880.