Information on Tongue Ties, Lip Ties & Cheek Ties
Tongue Ties Every individual possesses a Lingual Frenum, which is a band of tissue connecting the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth. If you lift your tongue and observe in a mirror, you will notice a small membrane in the center of the underside of the tongue. This membrane plays a role in anchoring the tongue to the floor of the mouth, enabling regular and unrestricted tongue movement. In the majority of individuals, the frenum allows for normal and unrestricted tongue mobility.
A tongue tie, medically referred to as "ankyloglossia," happens when the lingual frenum is abnormally tight or short, leading to restricted movement of the tongue. This condition can impact individuals from infancy all the way through adulthood, including their mature and senior years. The limited mobility of the tongue caused by a tongue tie can result in various challenges and affect oral functions, such as breastfeeding, speech, swallowing, dental hygiene, and overall oral health. |
Lip Ties A lip tie is a condition characterized by an abnormal attachment of the upper lip to the gum, resulting in restricted movement. A lip tie occurs when the tissue connecting the upper lip to the upper gums, known as the labial frenum, is excessively tight. In babies with a lip tie, the restricted membrane makes it challenging for them to properly flange their lips, which is necessary to create the necessary negative pressure during breastfeeding. As a result, they may ingest excess air while nursing, leading to issues like gas and fussiness. Additionally, a lip tie can contribute to early childhood caries, which are dental cavities that occur in young children. Addressing a lip tie can help alleviate these breastfeeding difficulties and reduce the risk of oral health problems in early childhood.Lip ties can also impact speech and cause problems that may lead to orthodontic correction.
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Cheek ties Alongside lip ties and tongue ties, there is another form of tethered oral tissue known as buccal ties, commonly referred to as cheek ties. These involve tissue connections between the gum and the inner cheek. Compared to tongue and lip ties, buccal ties are relatively less common. While some cases of tongue or lip tie may have minimal impact, many infants and children with these conditions can experience difficulties with feeding, swallowing, or speaking. It is essential to address these issues to support their oral functions and overall well-being.
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Restricted tongue, lip, and cheek ties, also known as tethered oral tissues or oral restrictions, can indeed have varying effects depending on a person's age.
It's important to note that the impact of oral restrictions can vary among individuals, and not everyone will experience the same effects. If you suspect that you or someone you know may have oral restrictions and are experiencing related challenges, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a lactation consultant, pediatric dentist, or an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, who can provide a comprehensive evaluation and guide you towards appropriate treatment options.
It's important to note that the impact of oral restrictions can vary among individuals, and not everyone will experience the same effects. If you suspect that you or someone you know may have oral restrictions and are experiencing related challenges, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a lactation consultant, pediatric dentist, or an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, who can provide a comprehensive evaluation and guide you towards appropriate treatment options.
Infants and NewbornsRestricted oral tissues can affect breastfeeding and bottle-feeding, as they may interfere with proper latching, sucking, and swallowing. This can result in feeding difficulties, poor weight gain, and maternal nipple pain. Early identification and intervention are crucial during this stage.
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Children and AdolescentsAs children grow older, restricted oral tissues can impact their oral health, speech development, and overall oral function. They may experience challenges with tongue mobility, articulation, and pronunciation of certain sounds. Orthodontic problems, such as gaps between teeth or an improper bite, can also arise.
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Teenagers and AdultsUntreated oral restrictions can persist into adolescence and adulthood, leading to potential long-term effects. Individuals may experience difficulties with oral hygiene, gum health, and dental stability. Speech issues, such as lisping or difficulty with certain sounds, may persist. In some cases, restricted oral tissues can contribute to sleep-disordered breathing, including snoring and obstructive sleep apnea.
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