Does your child have a lip or tongue tie? If so, you may wonder if treatment is necessary. Various experts and researchers debate the seriousness and long-term effects of these formations, making it difficult to know whether you should have your child seen by a licensed pediatric dentist. Add in the various myths that downplay lip and tongue ties, and it becomes even harder to know what the truth is. This is why it’s essential to debunk this kind of misinformation, three of which are covered in this article.
Myth #1: Lip and Tongue Ties Only Affect Feeding
If your child has a lip or tongue tie, you can expect it to affect more than just their ability to breastfeed or take a bottle. The restricted band of tissue can also inhibit their speech, how they consume solid food in the future, the position of their mouth, and their overall health.
School-aged children, teenagers, and adults who have lip or tongue ties can also struggle with mouth breathing, which can lead to sleep apnea, as well as an inability to swallow and significant jaw pain.
Myth #2: Pain is the Only Reason to Pursue Lip and Tongue Tie Treatment
Again, not true. Pain is only one symptom. No matter the child’s age, fussiness, poor latch, acid reflux, or refusal to take a bottle or breast, these are all signs of a more serious problem. Other symptoms include chronic jaw tension and discomfort, snoring, and dry mouth.
These signs are clear indicators that a lip or tongue tie exists and should be treated sooner rather than later.
Myth #3: Once a Lip or Tongue Tie is Released, You’re Finished
As with any oral procedure, adherence to aftercare is what determines whether treatment is complete. Once a lip or tongue tie is released, your child’s pediatric dentist will provide helpful stretching exercises you can perform on your little one at home.
This ensures that the banded tissue does not try to reattach over time. By remaining consistent with the lip or tongue stretches, you can improve your child’s chances of maintaining greater oral movement as they grow up. From eating and speaking to breathing and smiling confidently, it’s essential to stay on top of their aftercare guidelines.
Don’t fall victim to the countless myths surrounding lip and tongue ties. Get the facts from your child’s pediatric dentist today.
About the Author
Dr. Homer Sedighi is a board-certified pediatric dentist who helps patients of all ages. When a lip or tongue tie causes issues with feeding, speaking, breathing, or daily life, he is here to provide a safe solution that promotes improved oral movement over time – frenectomy. Contact us at (636) 777-7777 to schedule an appointment if you want to learn how we can help.