Lip & Tongue Tie Release Evaluations

Our lip & tongue tie release evaluations are designed to assess and address potential issues related to lip and tongue ties, ensuring optimal oral health and function for your child. At Shady Grove Pediatric Dentistry in Rockville, we understand the importance of early intervention and comprehensive care for infants and young children. 

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Understanding Lip and Tongue Ties

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Lip and tongue ties are common conditions present at birth that can affect the oral function and development of infants and young children. A lip tie occurs when the tissue connecting the upper lip to the gum line is too tight or thick, restricting movement and potentially interfering with breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, and later speech development. Similarly, a tongue tie occurs when the tissue connecting the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth is abnormally tight or short, limiting the tongue's range of motion and hindering proper feeding, swallowing, and speech articulation.

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Consequences of Untreated Lip and Tongue Ties

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Untreated lip and tongue ties can lead to various complications and challenges for infants and young children. In breastfeeding infants, a lip tie or tongue tie may cause difficulty latching, inadequate milk transfer, nipple pain and damage for the mother, poor weight gain for the baby, and frustration during feeding sessions. 

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Additionally, untreated tongue tie can contribute to issues such as reflux, colic, and gas in infants due to inefficient swallowing patterns. As children grow, the untreated condition may lead to speech difficulties, dental problems, and oral hygiene issues, impacting their overall oral health and quality of life.

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Comprehensive Evaluation and Diagnosis

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During a lip & tongue tie release evaluation at Shady Grove Pediatric Dentistry, our experienced children's dentist will conduct a thorough assessment of your child's oral structures and function to determine if a lip tie or tongue tie is present and whether intervention is necessary. 

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This evaluation may include a visual examination, functional assessment, and consideration of your child's feeding and speech history. Dr. Ball prioritizes a gentle and compassionate approach, ensuring your child's comfort and well-being throughout the evaluation process.

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Frenectomy Procedure

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If a lip tie or tongue tie is diagnosed and deemed to be causing functional limitations or discomfort for your child, our pediatric dentist may recommend a frenectomy procedure to release the tight or restrictive tissue. A frenectomy is a minor surgical procedure that involves precisely cutting the frenulum (the connective tissue) to improve mobility and function. 

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Post-Procedure Care and Follow-Up

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Frenectomies are very simple and typically have very gentle recovery periods. Your child should be able to resume normal activity immediately. Following a frenectomy procedure, you will receive detailed instructions for any post-operative care needed to support your child's recovery and ensure optimal outcomes. This may include gentle exercises to promote tissue healing and prevent reattachment, as well as recommendations for pain management and feeding techniques. We will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your child's progress and address any concerns or questions you may have along the way.

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An Easy Procedure With Numerous Benefits

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Releasing a lip or tongue tie can offer numerous benefits for infants, children, and even adults. By addressing these restrictive oral conditions, individuals may experience improved breastfeeding or feeding efficiency, leading to better weight gain and overall nutrition in infants. For older children and adults, releasing a lip or tongue tie can enhance speech articulation, swallowing function, and oral hygiene. 

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Additionally, correcting these issues early on can help prevent potential dental problems, such as misalignment or spacing issues, and promote optimal oral development and function. Ultimately, releasing a lip or tongue tie can significantly improve an individual's quality of life by eliminating functional limitations and promoting optimal oral health and function.

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Schedule Your Lip & Tongue Tie Release Evaluation

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If you have concerns about your child's oral function or suspect they may have a lip tie or tongue tie, don't hesitate to contact Shady Grove Pediatric Dentistry in Rockville to schedule a lip & tongue tie release evaluation. Our compassionate team is dedicated to providing exceptional care for infants and young children, helping them thrive and smile with confidence.

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