Lip Tie Laser Surgery: Are You a Candidate?

You may have heard of lip tie laser surgery, but do you know what this procedure can do? It is common among babies who have trouble eating, though other patients can undergo the operation as well. Your dentist can help you determine whether it makes sense for you. The two of you can discuss any concerns you have about the process.

Lip tie description

Underneath the upper lip is connective tissue called the frenum. Under normal conditions, the frenum allows for free lip movement. However, when a person has a lip tie, the frenum is tight and pulls the lip up. Though a lip tie is most common on the upper lip, it is possible for this condition to exist on the lower lip instead of or in addition to the upper lip. A lip tie is often present along with a tongue tie.

What it affects

When a person is born with a lip tie, it is difficult for the baby to breastfeed. The baby may not be able to effectively put their mouth around the mother’s nipple and make the required sucking motion. Lip tie can also affect a person’s ability to brush and floss teeth, leading to tooth decay or gum disease. Some patients may even experience gum recession.

The lip tie surgery

When a patient wants this surgery, or when a parent thinks it makes sense for a baby or child, the dentist will explain the process. The procedure is fast and simple; it only takes a few minutes. The dentist will use a laser to remove the frenum, as this method offers more precision. A significant benefit to this operation is that it should not require any local anesthetic or other medication. So, patients with drug allergies should not have any concerns about negative reactions.

Other benefits

While lip tie surgery is most often associated with babies, it is possible for other children and even adults to get the operation. The process is the same regardless of the patient’s age. Other people can find improvements to their speech after removing the frenum. It will also be less challenging for people to brush and floss properly. This surgery could also decrease orthodontic conditions such as bite abnormalities.

Choosing the surgery

Parents with babies who cannot eat well should talk to a dentist about getting lip tie laser surgery for the infant. Older children and adults can feel positive about making this decision if they are struggling with oral hygiene. The dentist can also give a recommendation on whether this procedure makes sense.

Simple and effective

Though a lip tie is not overly common, dentists do see this condition from time to time. If your baby is having trouble with mouth control, a lip tie laser surgery could be a smart idea for you and your child. Talk to your dentist today about scheduling the operation. The procedure is not complicated and takes little time. Once it is completed, the patient can eat without as much difficulty and experience other advantages as well.

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