Ties and Toddlers: What Parents Need to Know About Lip Ties

Nothing can beat the smile of a healthy and happy child. As a parent, you want what is best for your little one So, if you notice they’re having trouble, you’ll naturally step in to help. A lip tie affects the strip of skin beneath the upper lip, thickening it. This heavily restricts its movement, which can impact toddlers in multiple ways. Understanding the need for treatment is an important first step to help your child live a happier, healthier life.

If you want to learn how lip ties affect toddlers, stunting their development, continue reading.

1. Breastfeeding Challenges

Children who are especially young and breastfeeding will have a challenging time if they have a lip tie. The restricted movement of the upper lip may lead to latch issues, affecting the toddler’s ability to nurse effectively. Not only is it more difficult but feeding can cause them pain if the lip tie is severe enough.

2. Delayed Speech Development

In some cases, lip ties can contribute to speech delays or difficulties. The limited range of motion in the upper lip may affect the proper formation of certain sounds. Without treatment, this can follow a child into their adulthood, continuing to impede their ability to speak effectively.

3. Dental Problems

Lip ties can influence oral development, potentially leading to issues like misalignment of teeth, gaps between them, and tooth decay. It’s important to detect these dental issues in your toddler early and address them with their dentist. Otherwise, their problems could grow, leading to more intrusive and damaging oral health difficulties.

4. Dietary Issues

If a lip tie is carried into their later years, children can have difficulties with eating solid foods. They may choke, throw up, or develop stomach issues because of being unable to chew properly. This can lead to malnutrition which causes their teeth and bones to weaken, increasing the intensity of dental issues.

So, What Can Be Done?

A simple procedure called a frenectomy can address lip ties in toddlers. This quick and safe procedure involves using a dental laser to release the tight band of tissue, allowing for improved movement. The procedure only lasts a few minutes and is so gentle that most little patients don’t feel it.

Understanding the effects of lip ties on toddlers empowers parents to make informed decisions. Early identification and frenectomy treatment can pave the way for healthy and happy toddlerhood. If your child has a lip tie, don’t delay; see your friendly dental expert for help.

About the Author

Dr. Garcia-DeMartino is a talented and caring dentist who enjoys getting to know her patients and helping them achieve their best smiles. She earned her dental doctorate from Fairleigh Dickinson University and then continued her specialized training in laser dentistry through the International World Clinical Laser Institute. She is an expert on lip and tongue-tie treatment. Call (908) 859-5260 to schedule a frenectomy consultation at DeMartino Dental Group, P.C. or visit the website to explore other services.