Lip and tongue-tie are relatively common conditions that can affect around 5% of newborns and tend to be more common in boys. They can also run in families, so if you or any of your relations have had a lip or tongue tie, it's a good idea to check your young child as they can often be missed.
Lip and tongue-tie - what is it?
Tongue-tie (or ankyloglossia) occurs when the frenulum (the thin membrane that attaches the tongue to the floor of the mouth) is unusually short and/or inelastic, or when it attaches to the tongue in a way that restricts normal movement. Tongue-ties can cause problems with breastfeeding, as the tongue's mobility is restricted, causing the baby difficulty latching on.
Lip tie, as the name suggests, occurs when the membrane is attached to the inside of the lip at the front of the tongue, rather than beneath it.
What are the treatment options?
Whilst they can't be prevented, the good news is that our KIDS dentists are skilled at helping babies, children and adults with these conditions. Lip and tongue-ties can be fixed with a straightforward procedure called a frenectomy, followed by simple exercises.
The frenectomy is done in our practice so there's no need to travel out of town. A small incision is made under the tongue, separating the frenulum where it connects to the floor of the mouth. A precision laser them cauterises the tissue, stemming
What if I don't do anything?
Lip and tongue-ties restrict normal movement and can lead to issues with feeding and speech. In the longer term, leaving a lip or tongue-tie untreated can have a number of potentially detrimental effects, with
Lip and tongue-tie treatment can be more complex and take longer the later it is left, so early intervention is recommended. The KIDS team are always happy to answer any questions you may have, whether related to lip and tongue-ties or any other aspect of our service. Please speak to your KIDS dentist to see how we can help.
KIDS – Healthy Kids Nurtured by Nature
p:(07) 4942 5111
e: mackay@healthykidsqld.com.au
a: 6 Discovery Lane, Mackay QLD 4740
Monday 9:00am to 5:00pm
Tuesday 9:00am to 5:00pm
Wednesday 9:00am to 5:00pm
Thursday 9:00am to 5:00pm
Friday 9:00am to 3:00pm
Saturday – CLOSED
Sunday – CLOSED
Lip and Tongue Tie Forms:
- Child New Patient Form
- Expectations Lip and Tongue Tie
- Stretching Video
- Health Professional Comms Form