Is Lip & Tongue-Tie More Common Today?

It seems like tip and tongue ties are becoming a more commonly diagnosed problem. Parents even know some of the early signs to look out for. While this may seem like a new phenomenon, lip and tongue ties are nothing new. In reality, frenectomies have been performed as early as the 17^th century. Read on to learn more about lip & tongue ties, their history, and why treatment is so important.

What Are Lip & Tongue Ties?

A lip-tie occurs when the upper lip remains attached to the upper gums. Alternatively, a tongue-tie is the restriction of tongue movement as a result of fusion or adherence of the tongue to the floor of the mouth. This is caused by a frenum that is abnormally short to attached too loose to the top of the tongue. Both of these conditions can lead to various difficulties for infants and small children. Here are some of the most common ones.

• Inability to latch during breastfeeding or bottle feeding
• Inability to open the mouth wide
• Pine in the jaws
• Protrusion of the lower jaw
• Spacing between the top front teeth
• Increased risk of dental decay
• Pain when breastfeeding

Are Lip & Tongue Ties Becoming More Common?

Even though lip and tongue ties are more commonly known and talked about today, they have actually been around for a long time. Children have struggled with this for centuries. However, the methods of treatment have changed significantly over the years. In the olden days, children would undergo surgical procedures that include sharp tools to release the tissue band. At that time, breastfeeding would be the main source for infants.

In the 20^th century, baby formula was invented and become popular, so it started being used as an alternative for those who couldn’t breastfeed, had difficulty breastfeeding, or didn’t want to breastfeed. As mothers were encouraged to make this switch, lip and tongue ties became less of a noticeable issue. Now that more mothers are choosing to breastfeed, more cases of lip and tongue ties are becoming apparent.

How Does a Laser Frenectomy Work?

A frenectomy is a procedure that is performed to release the frenum – that band of tissue beneath the tongue or behind the upper lip. This allows for a better range of motion. To release this band of tissue, a soft tissue laser is used. There is very little discomfort associated with this procedure, and it is completed in just a few sections. There should be very little to no bleeding. The laser cauterizes and sterilizes as it goes, so there is very little risk of infection.

Lip and tongue ties are nothing new. If your child is showing symptoms, seeking help from your dentist can make a huge difference.

About the Author

Dr. Maggie Davis is a Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist and Diplomate in the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. She holds her Certification in Infant and Pediatric Tongue Ties and Lip Ties given by the American Board of Laser Surgery.  She is also a proud member of numerous professional organizations, like the Academy of Laser Dentistry and the American Board of Laser Surgery. To learn more about lip and tongue-tie treatment, visit her website or call (727) 786-7551.