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What is a “tongue-tie” or “lip tie”?
Sometimes, both children and adults have anatomical restrictions that are often referred to as “lip ties” or “tongue ties.” Most people are unaware that their dentist can help; however, we are one of the best-trained professionals to consult regarding a lip or tongue tie or more scientifically known as a frenulum. A frenulum is a little piece of tissue that attaches your upper lip and lower lip to your gums.
Frenectomy is a very common procedure performed mainly on infants as young as a few days old and children and adults. A frenectomy is a simple procedure that can be achieved by us in-office in as little as 15 minutes. We will first want you to come in for a consultation to determine if a frenectomy is suitable for you or your child.
A frenectomy is either performed inside the middle of the upper lip, called a labial frenectomy, or under the tongue, called a lingual frenectomy.
When your frenulum is either too large or too thin, it can cause issues with breastfeeding or latching, speech patterns, and teeth misalignment. Often, when the frenulum is too large in infants, it can disrupt or impede breastfeeding. When this is the case, a frenectomy is needed. For children, it can cause their front teeth to be gapped, mouth breathing, oral and speech development issues, difficulty swallowing solid food, a strong gag reflex, and even limited tongue movement.
For adults, it can cause TMJ, restrict your airway that can cause breathing issues and sleep disorders, speech impediments, digestion issues, and crowded and crooked teeth.
Having a properly shaped and sized frenum can dramatically improve oral function and the beauty of your smile. Speak to Dr. Rahimi-Thornton to find out if you or your child are a candidate for treatment.
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