Tongue Ties & Lip Ties

Tongue Ties & Lip Ties: Understanding, Treatment, and Comprehensive Support

As a parent, it can be distressing to notice that your infant is having difficulty feeding or experiencing speech delays. Tongue ties and lip ties are common conditions that can contribute to these issues, but with the right treatment and support, your child can overcome these challenges and thrive. At Milk & Milestones Therapy, we specialize in providing comprehensive physical and occupational therapy for infants with tongue ties and lip ties, ensuring they receive the best possible care and support for their development.

What Are Tongue Ties and Lip Ties?

A tongue tie, or ankyloglossia, occurs when the lingual frenulum—the band of tissue connecting the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth—is too short, tight, or thick. This can restrict the tongue’s movement, leading to difficulties with breastfeeding, eating, and speech.

A lip tie occurs when the labial frenulum—the tissue connecting the upper lip to the gum—is similarly tight or thick, restricting the movement of the upper lip. This can also interfere with breastfeeding and oral development.

The Impact of Tongue Ties and Lip Ties

Tongue ties and lip ties can cause a variety of issues, including:

• Breastfeeding Challenges: Infants may struggle to latch properly, causing pain for the mother and insufficient milk intake for the baby.
• Feeding Difficulties: Both conditions can affect bottle feeding and the introduction of solid foods.
• Speech Delays: Restricted tongue and lip movement can impact speech development, making it difficult for children to produce certain sounds.
• Oral Health Issues: Lip ties can lead to dental problems, such as gaps between the front teeth and increased risk of cavities.

The Procedure For Releasing Tongue Ties And Lip Ties

If your child is diagnosed with a tongue tie or lip tie, a pediatric dentist or oral surgeon may recommend a frenectomy to release the restrictive tissue. Here’s what to expect:

Consultation and Diagnosis

The process begins with a thorough examination by a dentist or oral surgeon who specializes in treating tongue ties and lip ties. They will assess the severity of the condition and discuss the benefits and risks of the procedure.

The Release Procedure

The actual procedure is typically quick and minimally invasive. Here’s how it’s performed:

• Local Anesthesia: The area is numbed to ensure your child is comfortable and pain-free.
• Frenectomy: Using sterile scissors or a laser, the provider will carefully release the tight frenulum. The procedure usually takes only a few minutes.
• Immediate Effects: Many parents notice an immediate improvement in their child’s ability to latch, feed, or move their tongue and lip more freely.

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery from a frenectomy is generally quick and uncomplicated. Post-procedure care includes:

• Minimal Discomfort: Mild discomfort or swelling can occur but is typically manageable with over-the-counter pain relief.
• Healing Time: The site usually heals within a week. It’s important to follow any prescribed stretching exercises to prevent reattachment.
• Follow-Up Visits: Regular follow-up appointments ensure proper healing and address any concerns.

Milk & Milestones Is Here To Support You And Your Child With Pediatric Physical And Occupational Therapy

Following the release procedure, physical and occupational therapy play a crucial role in supporting your child’s development and addressing any residual issues.

Benefits of Physical Therapy for Tongue Ties and Lip Ties

Physical therapy focuses on improving muscle function and coordination. For infants with tongue ties and lip ties, this includes:

• Oral Motor Exercises: Techniques to strengthen the muscles of the mouth and improve tongue and lip mobility, enhancing feeding and speech abilities.
• Overall Development: Supporting gross and fine motor skill development to ensure your child reaches important milestones.

Occupational Therapy and Feeding Issues

Occupational therapy is essential for addressing feeding difficulties and promoting overall development. Our occupational therapists at Milk & Milestones Therapy specialize in:

• Feeding Therapy: Working with infants to improve their ability to latch and feed effectively. This includes strategies for breastfeeding, bottle feeding, and transitioning to solids.
• Fine Motor Skills: Enhancing the dexterity and coordination needed for self-feeding and other daily activities.
• Sensory Integration: Helping children manage sensory sensitivities that can impact feeding and oral comfort.

Comprehensive Care at Milk & Milestones Therapy

At Milk & Milestones Therapy, we believe in a holistic approach to care. Our team of skilled physical and occupational therapists collaborates to create personalized therapy plans tailored to your child’s unique needs. Here’s how we support your family:

• Individualized Therapy Plans: Based on a thorough assessment, we develop a plan that addresses your child’s specific challenges and goals.
• Family Involvement: We provide parents with the tools and knowledge to support their child’s progress at home, including exercises and strategies to reinforce therapy sessions.
• Ongoing Support: Regular therapy sessions and follow-ups ensure continuous progress and adaptation to your child’s evolving needs.

Supporting Your Child’s Journey

Dealing with tongue ties and lip ties can be challenging, but with the right support, your child can overcome these obstacles and thrive. At Milk & Milestones Therapy, we are committed to providing compassionate, expert care to help your child achieve their full potential. If you have concerns about your child’s feeding or speech development, contact us today to learn more about how we can help. Together, we can ensure your child enjoys a bright and healthy future.

Visit one of our 3 locations in NJ or NY or schedule an in-home visit. Call us today at 201-401-0702 and get the help your child needs to grow healthy and strong.