Lip and Tongue Ties

A frenum or frenulum is a small piece of tissue that attaches either the upper lip to the gum tissue or the tongue to the floor of the mouth. In some children, this tissue is attached too tightly or too close to the teeth or tip of tongue, creating a pull on the gums and surrounding the teeth that can cause a nursing or periodontal problem, or can cause a child to be “tongue-tied,” preventing full movement of the tongue. The latter can also resulting in a nursing problem, as well as difficult and/or delayed speech. 

A procedure called a frenectomy may be done to help ease the tension that the prevents full movement of the lip or tongue. This simple procedure is easily done in our office, and can usually be accommodated the same day as a child’s consult appointment for infants with nursing challenges.