Lip & Tongue Tie Treatment – Fair Oaks, CA
Effective Treatments for Lip and Tongue Ties
Believe it or not, seemingly minor issues can have significant consequences. A small tissue concern in the mouth, such as a lip or tongue tie, can affect breastfeeding, speech development, and overall growth. Fortunately, Dr. Ji specializes in addressing these issues through a procedure called a frenectomy. For more information on this treatment, continue reading or give us a call to schedule a consultation!
How Do Lip and Tongue Ties Develop?
Lip and tongue ties occur when the skin under the tongue or upper lip is too thick or short. These little bands, called frenums, can limit movement in the mouth and cause various issues. They usually form before birth, and while the exact cause is unclear, it could be linked to genetics or not receiving enough nutrients during pregnancy. Parents should watch for signs like difficulty breastfeeding, digestive issues, and fussiness in babies. Breastfeeding mothers might also feel pain or notice cuts on their nipples.
Why is it Important to Treat Lip & Tongue Ties?
Neglecting to address a lip or tongue tie in infancy can lead to ongoing issues in childhood and adulthood. This may manifest in:
- Food texture aversions
- Higher risk of cavities, teeth grinding, and dental issues
- Elevated risk of snoring, obstructive sleep apnea, and breathing problems
- Speech delays or difficulties even with minimal alcohol intake
- Forward head posture
These challenges can impact self-confidence and hinder one's ability to fully enjoy life.
Lip & Tongue Tie Treatment
To address a lip or tongue tie, the standard approach is a swift and effective procedure called a frenectomy. Our process begins with a comprehensive examination, assessing the mobility of the lips and tongue while closely examining the frenulums. If the examination confirms the presence of a lip and/or tongue tie, we proceed to schedule treatment. In certain instances, we can even conduct the procedure on the same day as the examination.
Lip & Tongue Tie Treatment FAQs
How Should I Prepare My Baby for a Frenectomy?
Very little preparation is necessary prior to a frenectomy. Dr. Ji might advise you to do some simple exercises with your baby in the days leading up to the procedure. For example, you may place a clean finger on their tongue and allow them to suck on it. When you gently pull away, they will have to work harder to keep a hold on it. You can also run a finger along their gums. Their tongue should follow the motion. These exercises may help your child learn important oral functions.
We also urge you to keep stress to a minimum. Although an infant will not remember their tongue tie procedure, the entire process is easier when everyone involved is as relaxed as possible.
Does a Frenectomy Hurt?
We often administer local anesthetic for frenectomies, so your child should feel very little during the procedure. After the numbing agent wears off, it is normal for the patient to experience some soreness and discomfort for a few days. Over-the-counter pain medication and other simple measures can help to manage the situation.
Is My Child Old Enough to Get Lip or Tongue Tie Treatment?
We understand that many parents are a bit apprehensive about consenting to surgery for their child, even if the procedure is as minor as a frenectomy. However, there is no real need to worry. Even very young children — including infants just a few days old — can undergo successful treatment.
Also, keep in mind that a lip or tongue tie will not go away on its own. For your child to enjoy healthy oral function, it is best to get them treated as soon as possible.
What Should I Do After My Child’s Lip or Tongue Tie Has Been Treated?
After a frenectomy, there is a small chance that the frenum will reconnect. Because of that, you will have to help your child do some stretches and exercises for a few days after their procedure. Our team will give you detailed instructions. Basically, you will need to use clean hands to gently lift your baby’s lip or tongue. You should also gently swipe a finger under the lip or tongue a few times a day.
Can Adults Have Lip or Tongue Ties?
Lip and tongue tie are most often diagnosed and treated early in life. However, some people grow into adulthood with an untreated lip or tongue tie. Fortunately, Dr. Ji can perform frenectomies for both children and adults.
Does Getting a Full Mouth Reconstruction Hurt?
Comfort is our top priority throughout the entire process, so you can set your mind at ease. Each procedure included in your full mouth reconstruction in Ellicott City is performed with local anesthesia to keep you pain-free in the chair. If you have a more extensive treatment plan or moderate to severe dental anxiety, our team also offers sedation dentistry to make your experience more relaxed.
That said, there are some procedures where you may experience some mild soreness or swelling afterward. This is all a completely normal part of the process and can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and cold compresses. Our team will walk you through what to expect at every stage, so there are no surprises along the way.
How Long Does a Full Mouth Reconstruction Take?
Every case is unique, so there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Your timeline will depend entirely on how many restorative and cosmetic procedures your smile requires. Some patients need just one or two treatments over a couple of appointments, while others need a phased schedule that plays out over months or even years.
Your initial consultation is where our team will go over your goals and map everything out, so you know exactly what to expect in terms of time, cost, and commitment. Regardless of your specific needs, the process will take some patience, but the results will be well worth it.
Why Is My Dentist Recommending a Full Mouth Reconstruction?
Full mouth reconstruction is generally recommended when multiple teeth are damaged, decayed, or missing to the point that it’s affecting your quality of life. Rather than treating each problem individually, a reconstruction plan addresses everything together in a coordinated way, making it more efficient while simultaneously creating better results.
If you have severe decay, significant tooth loss, bite problems, worn enamel, or dental trauma, a full mouth reconstruction could be your best option. It’s a less overwhelming way to piece your smile back together so it looks, feels, and functions as it should.
Will People Be Able to Tell That I Had a Full Mouth Reconstruction?
Our team prides itself on its highly aesthetic results. We strive to ensure every restoration used in your treatment, whether it’s crowns, veneers, implants, or dentures, fits your smile perfectly.
This is why we use digital smile design to plan your results before treatment even begins, so you have an idea of what to expect at the end. Using this technology, we can fine-tune every detail, so your smile will look completely natural—so natural, in fact, that no one will ever know the difference.