Have you recently learned that your child has a lip or tongue-tie? This banded tissue is likely the reason for their fussiness, inability to latch or take a bottle, speak clearly, or eat solid foods. Affecting babies, children, teenagers, and even adults, this restricted form of lip or tongue movement can take its toll over time, but will it eventually go away on its own? Before assuming what will work best, trust that a dentist is here to recommend appropriate care for your little one.
Will a Lip or Tongue-Tie Go Away On Its Own?
Unfortunately, no, a lip or tongue-tie will not go away on its own. Many people assume the banded tissues will eventually stretch out enough to no longer cause any issues; however, this is not necessarily true.
What can occur are the changes that a child suffers from. Although they may have struggled to take a bottle as an infant, a lack of treatment can result in difficulty eating solid foods during childhood and/or adolescence.
What Kind of Problems Can Occur Without Treatment?
Depending on the age of your child, the symptoms are different for each age group. For infants, they may find it difficult to latch properly or take a bottle. They may be fussy or develop acid reflux.
Children and teenagers may have a hard time eating solid food, as the tongue cannot push it toward the back of the mouth. They might also have a slight lisp that causes them to slur their words when speaking. A gap between their upper front two teeth and mouth breathing are also common symptoms, both of which can lead to a lack of self-esteem and difficulty sleeping.
What Kind of Treatment Can Improve Symptoms?
You must meet with a skilled dental professional who can perform what is known as a frenectomy. This procedure can be completed with traditional scalpels and sutures or a soft tissue dental laser. Many dentists are turning to this more advanced option because it creates a more comfortable patient experience.
The laser’s precision-quick movement targets only the restricted tissue, releasing it so that your child can begin to move their tongue in various directions. Throughout the procedure, the laser should not cause any pain or discomfort.
A lip or tongue-tie may not go away on its own, but today’s dentists offer a safer and pain-free way to treat this type of problem – one that allows your child to get back to enjoying life on their terms.
About the Dentist
Dr. Nancy Quach is a Newark dentist who earned her dental degree at the University of California, San Francisco. She then completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency from the University of Texas Health and Science Center of San Antonio. As one of two dentists at Newpark Mall Family Dental Group, she works closely with parents whose children are suffering from lip and tongue-ties. Offering suitable treatment for this condition, we can ensure the health and safety of your baby, child, or teenager throughout the procedure. Contact us at (510) 796-8888 to discuss your child’s options for treatment.