Learning your baby has a lip or tongue-tie may cause one of two reactions: panic or acceptance. While some parents immediately become worried about how this banded tissue will impact their child’s ability to feed, breathe, and perform other similar functions, others take a more nonchalant approach, believing this type of issue will somehow go away on its own. Unfortunately, this is not the case, which is why it’s important to keep reading and learn why early treatment is best if you want your little to avoid the struggles commonly associated with lip and tongue-ties.
Can a Lip or Tongue-Tie Suddenly Correct Itself?
Unfortunately, without treatment, a lip or tongue-tie will not improve. When learning that your baby is dealing with this type of oral issue, it can create a host of problems that range from an inability to nurse to excessive fussiness and even the development of acid reflux and colic.
The only way to address the problem and minimize the extent of these issues is to have your little one undergo a frenectomy.
How Does a Frenectomy Work?
While some professionals still use a traditional scalpel and sutures to release these banded tissues, many experts are turning to dental lasers for a faster, more comfortable experience.
When bringing your little one in for treatment, the doctor will make sure they are as relaxed as possible before starting the procedure. Using a soft tissue laser, they will quickly lacerate the tissue so that it detaches and allows for a wider range of motion.
The laser’s concentrated beam of light is so precise that it targets only the specified area, minimizing any bleeding and swelling during the process. As a result, your baby will experience a swift recovery with minimal soreness.
Many doctors recommend that parents help soothe their little ones immediately following their appointment by nursing or offering a bottle.
While it can be hard to place your baby in someone else’s hands to perform this type of procedure, trust that it is necessary to allow for better eating, breathing, speaking, and all-around quality of life. By addressing the issue now, you can avoid greater oral and overall health problems in the future.
About the Author
Dr. Michael Rullo is a lip and tongue-tie expert who understands the struggles parents experience when caring for a child with limited oral mobility. The challenges of nursing, bottle-feeding, and even the fussiness that occurs can be overwhelming; however, he and his team can deliver fast and effective care that almost immediately improves you and your baby’s quality of life. Instead of hoping the issue will go away on its own, contact us via the website or call (905) 525-8272 to find out how we can help.