41-B. What is a lip tie procedure for infants?

A lip tie occurs when the tissue connecting a baby’s upper lip to the gums (labial frenulum) is tight or restrictive. This can affect feeding, comfort, and sometimes growth.

A simple procedure called a frenectomy (or frenotomy) can release this tissue, allowing better lip movement and improving feeding. It’s a quick procedure, often performed with scissors or a laser, and most babies can nurse right away with minimal discomfort and a fast recovery.

Common Signs of a Lip Tie

In Infants:

-Difficulty latching or maintaining a good latch
-Clicking noises, fussiness, or frustration during feeding
-Long feeding sessions or frequent breaks
-Poor weight gain
-Milk leaking from the mouth, gagging, or reflux-like symptoms

For Breastfeeding Mothers:

-Nipple pain, cracking, or bleeding
-Engorgement or clogged ducts
-Low milk supply or mastitis
-Feeding-Related Clues
-Shallow latch or poor milk transfer
-Noisy feeding due to air intake
-Falling asleep quickly while feeding from fatigue
-Frequent stops to breathe or reposition
-Physical Signs
-A visible tight band of tissue under the upper lip
-Difficulty lifting or flanging the upper lip outward
-Blisters or calluses on the lip from friction
-Effects on Growth and Comfort

Lip ties can sometimes lead to:

-Poor weight gain
-Gassiness, colic, or reflux-like symptoms
-Feeding aversion

For mothers, ongoing discomfort can affect both comfort and milk supply.

-Treatment Overview
-Performed by trained pediatric dentists, physicians, or ENT specialists
-The tight tissue is gently released using scissors or laser
-Quick procedure with minimal discomfort and no stitches
-Simple stretches may be recommended afterward to support healing
-Often treated alongside a tongue tie if both are present
-Why Early Treatment Matters

Addressing a significant lip tie early can:

-Improve feeding and comfort
-Support healthy oral development
-Help prevent future dental or speech concerns

If left untreated in more severe cases, it may contribute to ongoing feeding challenges, growth concerns, or dental issues later on.

Signs in Older Children

If a lip tie isn’t treated and causes issues, you may notice:

-A gap between the front teeth
-Difficulty cleaning around the gums
-Food getting trapped easily
-Speech challenges or increased risk of cavities
-When to Seek an Evaluation

Not all lip ties require treatment. Some mild cases improve with lactation support or positioning changes. However, if symptoms persist, it’s best to seek an evaluation from a pediatric dentist, pediatrician, or lactation specialist experienced with oral ties.