“We can clean your teeth, fix your cavity, and help your tongue and lip tie.”
Wait, what was the last thing you said?
Tongue and lip tie treatment isn’t something you often associate with your dental office, but at Integrity Dental in Pueblo, we are proud to offer this procedure.
Tongue and lip ties can go undetected and may present risks for infants and children, but considering it can be an easy fix, we want to help you and the health of your family.
WHAT IS A TONGUE TIE?
A tongue tie (ankyloglossia) is when the connective tissue between the bottom of the mouth and the tongue extends too far limiting movement and extendibility.
An abnormal lingual frenulum (look in the mirror and you’ll see it when you lift your tongue; this helps to keep your tongue in your mouth and stabilize movements) can make breastfeeding, sticking tongue out, eating, speaking, or swallowing difficult.
Complications can include limited oral health that can lead to tooth decay and gingivitis, problems while breastfeeding which can interfere with adequate nutrition, oral activities such as playing a wind instrument, licking, and speech difficulties in relation to pronouncing certain letters.
WHAT IS A LIP TIE?
A lip tie is when the connective tissue between the gums and lip extends too far also affecting movement.
Lip ties are typically diagnosed if the movement of the upper lip is limited due to the labial frenulum (attaches the upper lip to the gums) being too tight or restrictive in movement.
You will often see the gum area where the lip tie is, have a white appearance due to the tissue being constricted.
Complications from lip tie include trouble breastfeeding, eating from a spoon or with finger foods and may cause tooth decay.
CAUSES OF TONGUE AND LIP TIES?
At this time, it’s relatively unknown what causes tongue or lip tie, although genetics can be a factor and it’s most often seen in boys.
Tongue ties are more common than lip ties and—at times—both conditions can be seen together.
WHAT IS THE TREATMENT FOR TONGUE AND LIP TIES?
Tongue and lip ties don’t always present a problem which is why proper diagnosis and treatment is crucial.
The good news is if treatment is needed it’s fast and recovery is generally quick.
Treatment is as simple as applying a topical numbing agent and then cutting the problem area with scissors or using a laser. With minimal to no bleeding, your child is ready to go home.
Post-procedure it’s very important to do daily exercises that ensure the separation of tissue and proper healing of the treated area.
Are you surprised that a dental office can treat a tongue or lip tie? Pretty fascinating, isn’t it?!
If you think you have a tongue or lip tie or have concern that your child may struggle with one, call Integrity Dental in Pueblo today so we can help you with the proper diagnosis and explore your best treatment options!