Lip & Tongue Tie Treatment – Burke, VA
A Few Minutes for a Lifetime of Comfort
“Tongue-tied” is a common phrase used to describe someone struggling to get their words out, but it’s also a real medical condition. It, along with lip-ties, can severely limit someone’s oral function, which can be particularly problematic for nursing infants unable to latch or create a steady flow. It doesn’t just affect babies, however—thousands of teens and adults struggle with them as well, developing speaking, eating, and dental issues.
NOVA Burke can help stressed parents and patients of all ages put ties behind them using a precise, comfortable, and fast laser treatment that can be completed in a single visit. It often only takes a few minutes—click here to schedule an appointment today.
Why Choose Northern Virginia Oral, Maxillofacial & Implant Surgery for Lip & Tongue Tie Treatment?
- Soft Tissue Laser for Quick & Comfortable Treatment
- Can Help Infants, Kids, Teens, & Adults
- Team Led by Board-Certified Oral Surgeons
How Do Lip and Tongue Ties Develop?
Lip ties and tongue ties are caused by short or thick frenula (also known as frenulums). The lingual frenum connects the bottom of the tongue to the floor of the mouth, while the labial frenum connects the upper lip to the gums above the front teeth. When these tissues are too tight or malformed, they can restrict movement and lead to a variety of symptoms.
Lip and tongue ties begin developing in the womb. Though the exact cause isn’t always clear, possible factors include genetics or nutritional deficiencies during pregnancy.
Parents should look out for symptoms such as difficulty breastfeeding, poor weight gain, colic, or digestive issues. Nursing mothers may also notice pain, blisters, or cuts on their nipples.
Why Is It Important to Treat Lip & Tongue Ties?
When left untreated, lip and tongue ties can continue causing issues into childhood and adulthood. These may include:
- Sensitivity to food textures
- Increased risk of cavities, teeth grinding, and other oral issues
- Snoring, sleep apnea, and other breathing disturbances
- Speech delays or impediments
- Poor posture, especially forward head positioning
Lip & Tongue Tie Treatment
A frenectomy in Burke is the standard treatment for lip and tongue ties. This quick procedure involves gently releasing the restricted frenum to allow greater mobility of the lip or tongue. While many providers use surgical scissors, our practice performs frenectomies using a state-of-the-art laser.
This approach minimizes bleeding, significantly reduces the risk of infection, and often eliminates the need for local anesthesia. In most cases, infants can breastfeed comfortably right after their procedure.