Tongue Ties and Lip Releasing Frenectomy

Between 4-10% of children are born with some degree of frenulum restriction, also known as tongue-tie or lip-tie. This means that their tongues and lips are attached to the mouth with excessive connective tissue webbing. This excess tissue impedes the movement of the tongue or lips to various degrees and can cause anything from moderate inconveniences to more severe impairments including failure to thrive in neonates to periodontal issues as adults.

Infant/Child/Adult Symptoms:
Inability to latch, painful nursing, increased air in belly while nursing, unable to lick ice cream cone, limited ability to extend tongue, gap between front teeth, painful catching of the frenulum between teeth, delayed speech, difficulty making certain sounds (such as T, R, and L sounds), difficulty swallowing solid food, or a very strong gag reflex.

Revision Procedure:
When a child suffers from tongue-tie and lip-tie, we offer a simple procedure called a revision. The procedure may be performed as early as the day of birth and has very low records of complications. Dr. Korie and her team can perform the procedure right in our office.

We see to the baby's comfort by applying a numbing cream and then the doctor uses the laser to gently remove the frenulum tissue, causing virtually no bleeding. Stitches are usually not required. Afterward, the baby is allowed to nurse or feed immediately. While this procedure is relatively simple, it can yield big results such as restoring ease of speech and self-esteem.

Contact our office at Derby City Pediatric Dentistry to discuss your questions and concerns and schedule an appointment for a full examination and consultation.