A tongue-tie is a restriction of the lingual frenum (little tissue connection under the tongue). This physical restriction can limit normal function that causes or contributes to a range of functional issues. Current research suggests that tongue restrictions occur in about 20-25% of babies.
If your infant has a tongue-tie, it’s common to have a lip restriction as well. The lip frenum is the tissue connection between the lips and the upper gums. It is more common on the top arch and lip. For infants, a restrictive and tethered lip that has difficulty flanging out or sealing in milk may contribute to gassiness and fussiness.
Shallow or poor latch at breast or bottle
Gumming or chewing your nipple when nursing
Clicking or smacking noises when eating
Pacifier falls out easily, doesn’t like, won’t stay in
Slides or pops/off the nipple
Milk dribbles out of mouth when nursing/bottle
Colic symptoms/cries a lot
Short sleeping requiring feedings every 1-2 hours
Reflux symptoms
Snoring, noisy breathing or mouth breathing
Falls asleep while eating
Feels like a full-time job just to feed baby
Spits up often
Nose congested often
Gagging, choking, coughing when eating
Baby is frustrated at the breast or bottle
Gassy (toots a lot)/Fussy often
Frequent hiccups
Poor weight gain
Frequent eating
Lip curls under when nursing or taking bottle
Very long eating time per feeding session
Creased, flattened or blanched nipples
Poor or incomplete breast drainage
Lipstick shaped nipples
Infected and/or bleeding nipples or breasts
Blistered or cut nipples
Plugged ducts/engorgement/mastitis
Using nipple shield
Nipple thrush
Painful initial latching
Baby prefers one side over other
Pain during nursing
Dr. Joel, a board-certified pediatric dentist, uses the very precise LightScalpel CO2 laser for frenectomies. The CO2 laser is safe, quick, and displays immediate results. There is often minimal to no bleeding, and is done without stitches. The LightScalpel CO2 laser precisely vaporizes and seals blood vessels simultaneously. On infants, the procedure usually takes a few seconds. It’s so efficient that sedation is not needed.
• An exam before and after potential releases with an International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) is critical for success. IBCLCs provide targeted functional exercises and other specific instruction based on the baby’s assessment.
• Dr. Joel provides a functional exam after listening to your story and goals.
• If a physical restriction of a tongue- and/or lip-tie is noted with functional issues, then the restrictions may be released, if indicated.
• A follow-up exam with an IBCLC and/or bodyworker is highly recommended. Treatment of a tongue-tie does not stop and end with a frenectomy. It’s important to understand that after a release, drastic improvement isn’t always instantaneous. Your infant may be treated by a skilled bodyworker who can help address muscular and skeletal issues that might have resulted from the birthing process or tongue-tie. Bodyworkers use gentle manipulation to help correct musculoskeletal issues. A bodyworker may include a Craniosacral therapist, Chiropractor, Osteopathic Pediatrician, Physical Therapist, Occupational Therapist, or massage therapist.
• Dr. Joel provides a complimentary 1-week follow-up exam to check healing and review stretches to minimize risk of re-attachment and contractional healing. A deeper stretch may be provided.
