Tongue Ties and Lip Ties

Supporting Healthy Feeding, Speech, and Development

At West Burlington Dentistry, we provide gentle and comprehensive care for infants, children, and families affected by tongue ties and lip ties. These common oral restrictions can impact feeding, speech development, breathing, swallowing, and overall oral function. Our team takes a patient-centered approach to assess oral function and determine the most appropriate treatment options to help your child thrive. West Burlington Dentistry offers evaluation and treatment for tongue ties and lip ties as part of its commitment to supporting healthy growth and development.

What Are Tongue Ties and Lip Ties?

A tongue tie (ankyloglossia) occurs when the tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth is unusually tight or restrictive, limiting tongue movement. A lip tie occurs when the tissue connecting the upper lip to the gums restricts normal lip mobility. These conditions can interfere with proper feeding, speech development, oral hygiene, and craniofacial growth.

Signs and Symptoms

In Infants

Difficulty breastfeeding or bottle feeding

Poor latch during feeding

Clicking sounds while feeding

Extended feeding times

Milk leakage during feeding

Poor weight gain

Excessive gas or fussiness

In Children

Difficulty breastfeeding or bottle feeding

Poor latch during feeding

Clicking sounds while feeding

Extended feeding times

Milk leakage during feeding

Poor weight gain

Excessive gas or fussiness

If you notice any of these symptoms, a professional evaluation can help determine whether a tongue tie or lip tie may be contributing to the problem.

Comprehensive Assessment and Personalized Care

Every child is unique. Our team performs a detailed examination of oral function, tongue mobility, lip movement, feeding concerns, and overall development. We work closely with parents and, when appropriate, collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure a comprehensive treatment approach that supports your child’s long-term health and well-being.

Benefits

Benefits of Treatment

When a tongue tie or lip tie significantly affects function, treatment may help:

Support healthy speech development

Enhance oral function and mobility

Improve swallowing patterns

Promote healthy craniofacial growth

Reduce oral discomfort and tension

Support better overall quality of life

Treatment recommendations are based on your child’s specific needs and symptoms.

Top Reasons

Why Choose Us

Experienced and compassionate dental team

Child-friendly and family-focused care

Comprehensive oral function assessments

Personalized treatment plans

Gentle and supportive approach

Modern technology and evidence-based care

Schedule Your Visit Today

If you have concerns about your child’s feeding, speech, breathing, or oral development, the team at West Burlington Dentistry is here to help. We provide thorough evaluations and personalized care to help children achieve healthy function, comfort, and confidence as they grow. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about tongue tie and lip tie treatment options.

Everything You Need to Know

Frequently Asked Questions

What are tongue ties and lip ties?

Tongue ties and lip ties occur when the small bands of tissue (frenula) under the tongue or upper lip are too tight or restrictive. These conditions can affect feeding, speech development, oral function, and overall growth.

What should I do in a dental emergency?

Common signs include difficulty breastfeeding or bottle feeding, poor latch, clicking sounds while feeding, prolonged feeding times, reflux-like symptoms, speech concerns, or difficulty moving the tongue or upper lip. A professional evaluation can determine whether a tie is present and if treatment is recommended.

Can tongue ties and lip ties affect speech development?

Yes. In some children, restricted tongue movement can make it difficult to form certain sounds and may impact speech clarity. Early assessment can help identify whether treatment may benefit speech and oral function.

What treatment options are available for tongue and lip ties?

Treatment may involve a simple procedure called a frenectomy or frenotomy, which releases the restrictive tissue. Modern laser techniques are often used because they are precise, minimally invasive, and promote faster healing.

Is teeth whitening safe?

Yes. When performed by trained dental professionals, treatment is generally safe and quick. The procedure is designed to improve function while minimizing discomfort and recovery time.

How long does recovery take after treatment?

Most infants and children recover quickly, often within a few days. Parents are provided with detailed aftercare instructions to support healing and help maintain improved tongue and lip mobility.

At what age should a tongue tie or lip tie be treated?

Treatment timing depends on the severity of symptoms. Infants experiencing feeding difficulties may benefit from early intervention, while older children may be evaluated if speech, eating, breathing, or oral development concerns arise.

Will my child need a consultation before treatment?

Yes. A comprehensive assessment is the first step. During the consultation, the dental team will evaluate oral function, discuss symptoms, and determine whether treatment is necessary for your child's specific needs.

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