Lip and Tongue Tie Release
Lip ties and tongue ties are common conditions found in children and adults where the tongue or lip frenulum (the thin band of tissue) is too tight, causing restrictions in movement that can lead to various issues, particularly with feeding, speech development, and oral hygiene. A lip tie affects the upper lip, binding it too tightly to the upper gum, and a tongue tie restricts the tongue’s movement, making it hard to reach the roof of the mouth or move freely.
Causes and Symptoms
The exact causes of lip and tongue ties are not fully understood but are thought to be linked to genetic factors. They are conditions that are present at birth. Symptoms can vary but often include difficulty with the following:
- Breastfeeding
- Gaps between front teeth
- Speech difficulties
- Challenges with oral hygiene
- Snoring and difficulty sleeping
Diagnosis
Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination by a dentist, pediatrician, or lactation consultant. These professionals look for signs of restricted movement and assess the impact on feeding and speech. In some cases, further assessments may be necessary to determine the extent of the condition and the best course of treatment.
Lip/Tongue Tie Release Treatment
Treatment depends on the severity of the condition and its impact on the patient's well-being. Not all cases require intervention. However, when necessary, the most common treatment is a simple procedure known as a “frenectomy,” or a lip tie or tongue tie release.
A frenectomy is a minimally invasive procedure performed by our periodontal specialist, where the tight frenulum is clipped or lasered to release the lip or tongue. The procedure is quick, often taking less than a few minutes, and can significantly improve feeding and speech abilities. For babies, breastfeeding can frequently resume immediately, offering instant relief.
Aftercare and Exercises
After the procedure, specific exercises may be recommended to prevent the frenulum from reattaching and to improve the range of motion. Pain management, typically with over-the-counter pain relievers, may also be needed.
The Importance of Early Intervention
Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing long-term feeding, speech, and oral health issues. Parents and caregivers should consult healthcare professionals if they notice lip or tongue tie symptoms in their children. Early intervention can improve outcomes and support a child’s overall development and well-being.
Contact us today to schedule your appointment or learn more about this treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, adults can absolutely receive lip and tongue tie release treatment, and modern dental laser technology has made the procedure safer, more comfortable, and more effective than ever before. While these conditions are often identified and treated in infancy, many adults live with undiagnosed lip or tongue ties that contribute to various oral health and functional issues.
When the frenulum, which is the band of tissue connecting the lip to the tongue or gums to the floor of the mouth, is too tight or thick, restricting normal movement, it is known as a tongue or lip tie. In adults, untreated ties can cause speech difficulties, challenges with eating certain foods, jaw tension, headaches, sleep apnea, and even contribute to gum recession or gaps between teeth.
Laser frenectomy offers significant advantages over traditional surgical methods. The dental laser precisely removes or releases the restrictive tissue with minimal discomfort and no need for scalpels or sutures. The laser simultaneously cauterizes the area, resulting in less bleeding, reduced infection risk, and faster healing times. Most patients experience only mild discomfort following the procedure and can return to normal activities within a day or two.
The treatment typically takes just 15-30 minutes and can be performed with local anesthesia. Many adults report immediate improvements in tongue mobility and comfort, with continued functional improvements developing over the following weeks as they retrain their oral muscles.
If you've experienced unexplained oral health issues or functional limitations, a tongue or lip tie evaluation may reveal the underlying cause and provide a path to relief.
Our Team
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Dr. Laura Capati
Dr. Laura Capati grew up in Omaha, Nebraska, and earned her bachelor's degree at Washington University in St. Louis. She went on to graduate from Southern Illinois University with a Doctorate in Dental Medicine, then completed her three-year periodontic residency at St. Louis University.
Dr. Capati is a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology, a distinguished credential that signifies she has achieved significant accomplishments beyond the mandatory educational requirements of the specialty. This board certification demonstrates her commitment to the highest standards of periodontal care and expertise.
She maintains active membership ...
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Lip and Tongue Tie Release Technology
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