Services
Tongue & Lip Tie
Typically, permanent teeth emerge between the ages of 6 and 12. Whenever your kid’s back teeth (molars) develop, Dr. Justin Baik must perform a “bite check” to ensure that each tooth works together and is appropriately aligned. This early screening helps the Fox Pediatric Dentistry team determine if your child needs orthodontic appliances to keep their smile straight and healthy as well as prevent more extensive dental health issues.
Tongue Tie vs. Lip Tie
Tongue ties and lip ties are conditions that are present at birth. While both conditions are similar, they are, in fact, two separate physical disorders:
Typically, tongues can reach the roof of the mouth and move freely past the lower lip.
Medically known as ankyloglossia, a tongue tie is classified as an unusually short or tight band of tissue that tethers the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth. This tiny fold restricts tongue movement and can cause kids with a tongue tie to get cuts under their tongues, experience tooth decay, and have trouble speaking and eating.
Did you know lips form between the 4th and 7th weeks of pregnancy? While lips are often taken for granted, they are essential for a baby’s development. A well-formed labial frenulum (the soft tissue that attaches the upper lip to the gums) stabilizes the lips and helps the infant latch, feed, and communicate.
On the other hand, a lip tie is a widespread problem that restricts lip movement because there is inadequate space between the upper lip and lower gums. Generally, lip ties occur for one of two reasons:
- The labial frenulum is fastened too closely to one side of the upper gums.
- A tongue tie (Often, these conditions happen in conjunction.)
Tongue and lip tie evaluations are part of the dental exam and will be addressed if causing functional limitations in your child. With time, it’s possible for these conditions can resolve themselves. But if not, lip and tongue ties can be addressed through frenectomies.
What happens during lip and tongue tie surgery?
Depending on the child’s age, Dr. Justin might apply a topical anesthetic to numb the area before performing the procedure. A frenectomy is a straightforward procedure in which our pediatric dentist precisely severs the restricting connective band to allow for more free movement in the lips or tongue. Luckily, a frenectomy takes only a few minutes, and the benefits are immediate. After the procedure, Dr. Justin will give follow-up instructions on adequately caring for and cleaning the surgical site.
Correct a Lip or Tongue Tie Now, Prevent Developmental Issues Later
Does your child have a tongue or lip tie? If so, Dr. Justin can correct these common developmental issues in the comfort and convenience of the Fox Pediatric Dentistry office. Call (224) 629-4125 or message us online to schedule a frenectomy appointment in Elgin, IL.
