Things To Do If You Suspect Your Baby Has A Lip Tie

Breastfeeding can be one of the most beautiful bonding experiences between a parent and their baby. However, for some families, this precious moment can quickly turn into a frustrating ordeal. If your little one is struggling to latch, spending ages feeding without seeming satisfied, or dealing with excessive gas and reflux, you might be facing an issue with a lip tie.

A lip tie occurs when the thin tissue connecting your baby’s upper lip to their gums—known as the labial frenulum—is too thick or tight. This restricts the movement of the lips and can make feeding difficult. While many babies have lip ties that don’t cause any problems and often improve as they grow, there are more severe cases that can affect feeding, oral development, and even future dental health.

Dr. Suraj Vatish, a pediatric dental surgeon from Happy Kids Dental, has specialized expertise in this area. He’s seen firsthand how a simple lip tie can create obstacles for both babies and their parents.

Recognizing Lip Tie in Your Baby

Early detection of lip tie can be a game changer for feeding and overall health. According to Dr. Vatish, watch for these telltale signs:

– Difficulty latching onto the breast or bottle—you might notice your baby struggling to get a good grip.
– Lip blisters—little blisters on the upper lip may indicate that your baby is not using their lips properly during feeding.
– Prolonged feeding sessions that leave your baby fussy and unsatisfied.
– Clicking sounds while nursing, which can indicate they’re not creating a proper seal.
– Poor weight gain or slowed growth, which should always raise a flag.
– Gassiness, reflux, or colic-like symptoms due to swallowing too much air during feeds.
– A gap between the upper front teeth as they develop, which could be a sign of long-term effects.

Dr. Vatish emphasizes that ignoring a restrictive lip tie can have serious consequences. “A lip tie prevents a baby from flanging their lips properly around the breast, making it tough to create a strong seal,” he explains. This could lead to:

– Maternal pain, such as sore or cracked nipples, and even conditions like mastitis.
– Inadequate milk transfer, risking not just your supply but your baby’s health too.
– **Frustration for your baby**, which may result in fussiness at the breast or rejection of the bottle, making feeding time a battlefield.
– Aerophagia, where your baby swallows air during feeds, leading to discomfort and gas.

Diagnosing a lip tie isn’t just a quick glance. Dr. Vatish advises that a proper assessment should be conducted by a professional—ideally, a pediatric dentist, lactation consultant, or a pediatrician trained in oral restrictions. The evaluation includes:

– Visual Inspection: Taking a close look at how your baby’s upper lip moves and attaches to their gums.
– Functional Assessment: Observing a feeding session to spot any challenges in real-time.
– Tongue Tie Check: Since lip ties often coincide with tongue ties, a thorough oral exam is vital.
– Parent Collaboration: Your insights about your baby’s feeding struggles are crucial for a proper diagnosis.

For babies diagnosed with a restrictive lip tie, Dr. Vatish offers a hopeful solution: a laser frenectomy. He assures parents that this is a safe, quick, and effective treatment. Unlike traditional scissors, which can lead to more bleeding and infection, a laser precisely releases the tight tissue, allowing for improved lip movement and feeding.

The procedure takes mere seconds and typically involves little to no bleeding. Most parents report noticing significant improvements in their baby’s feeding immediately afterward, making it a transformative experience for both parents and babies alike.

The Long-term Implications of Ignoring Lip Tie

It’s not just about immediate feeding success; ignoring a lip tie can lead to various complications in the future. Dr. Vatish highlights potential issues such as:

– Speech Difficulties: Complications can affect a child’s ability to articulate words clearly as they grow.
– Dental Spacing Issues: Misaligned teeth can stem from unresolved lip ties.
– Oral Hygiene Challenges: Brushing around a lip tie might be uncomfortable, increasing the risk of decay.
– Breathing and Airway Concerns: A tight lip tie might contribute to mouth breathing, which can lead to further health issues.

Taking action early can set your child up for a healthier future.

What to Do If You Suspect a Lip Tie

If you’re worried about your baby’s feeding issues, reach out for help. Babies experiencing difficulties—especially with their latch—should undergo an evaluation from a professional familiar with lip ties. This step could drastically improve your feeding experience and ensure that your little one is thriving.