Lip and tongue-ties are conditions that can affect patients from birth. They happen when the connective tissues holding the lips or tongue to the rest of the mouth are too thick. This causes mobility issues and can even affect development. However, there are many myths and misconceptions surrounding these conditions that can lead to confusion and misinformation. If you want to cut through the fog and see some of these myths debunked, continue reading.
Myth 1: Lip and Tonge-Ties Only Affect Infants
While lip and tongue ties are more commonly diagnosed in infants, they can also affect children and adults. For instance, an infant may experience feeding difficulties while a child or adult may face difficulties cleaning their teeth.
Myth 2: Lip and Tongue-Ties Go Away on Their Own
While some less severe cases of lip and tongue-ties may improve with age as the frenulum stretches, many do not. The majority of patients diagnosed with a lip or tongue-tie require a frenectomy to fix the issue effectively. It’s important to have your child diagnosed and treated if they are having difficulties.
Myth 3: Frenectomies are Painful and Risky
Frenectomies are a safe and well-tolerated procedure when performed by a skilled dentist with the right equipment. Precision soft tissue lasers can make the procedure quick and painless when paired with a small amount of topical anesthetic. There can be some discomfort after the procedure as the area heals, but it is easily managed.
Myth 4: Lip and Tongue-Ties Are Only Cosmetic
While lip and tongue-ties can cause some slight changes in facial aesthetics, their effects are more than skin-deep. These ties can affect oral function and even child development. Ties can make it hard for children to get proper nutrition and may even cause teeth to erupt improperly. This is why addressing lip and tongue-ties is essential for overall oral and bodily health.
When it comes to lip and tongue-ties, it’s important to separate fact from fiction. Understanding the realities of these conditions can help you make informed decisions about treatments that could affect your child’s health. If you suspect that your child may have a lip or tongue-tie, reach out to your dentist. They can meet you for a consultation and provide a proper diagnosis and treatment.
About the Practice
If you’re looking for experienced dentists that can perform precise frenectomies to treat lip or tongue-ties, you’ll find them at Healthy Sleep Tulsa. They use ultramodern LightScalpel soft tissue lasers to ensure that the treatment is efficient and pain-free. Call (918) 300-4325 to schedule a frenectomy consultation or visit the website to learn more.