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Lip and Tongue Tie Releases

June 23, 2022/in blog-main, service-blog /by admin

What is a tongue tie?

A tongue tie is when a tight thin string of tissue (lingual frenum) under the tongue restricts the movement of the tongue. We are all born with a lingual frenum, it connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth. However, for some newborns if the frenum is too tight or tethered it will impact the movement of the tongue and possibly the ability for the infant to breastfeed due to a poor latch.

What is a lip tie?

A lip tie is commonly seen in babies that also have a tongue tie. It occurs when the tissue attachment between the upper lip and upper gum (labial frenum) is too tight. This can also hinder nursing since the baby cannot flange around the breast to create a proper seal.

Signs & Symptoms of Lip & Tongue Ties:

Mom:

  • Pain and damage of nipple while nursing
  • Flattened nipples after breastfeeding
  • Prolonged feedings
  • Poor breast drainage and decreased milk production

Baby:

  • Poor weight gain
  • Popping on and off the breast
  • Noisy suckling or clicking
  • Leaking on the sides of the mouth
  • Coughing or gagging
  • Gas pain
  • Reflux or colic symptoms
  • Noisy breathing or snoring while sleeping

Diagnosis and Treatment
During our examination, we evaluate the infant’s function. Not all ties cause problems and require correction. Therefore, each patient with a lip and tongue tie are evaluated to see how the restriction affects mobility and function.

If release or revision of the tie is indicated, the LightScalpel laser is used.  For best results, lip and tongue exercises and stretches must be done after treatment and breastfeeding support with a lactation consultant is highly recommended. We also encourage bodywork with a Chiropractor and or Osteopath.

Children and Adults:
We perform our frenectomies with a state of the art CO2 Lightscalpel laser https://www.lightscalpel.com/patient-laser-surgery/ . Dr. Hendricks has also been trained by Dr. Zaghi at the Breathe Institute in Los Angeles to release tethered oral tissues using scissors and suture technique https://www.thebreatheinstitute.com/tonguetierelease.html . When doing all of our release procedures we use with a multidisciplinary protocol to achieve success. This integrates myofunctional therapy both before and after the release. This allows for optimal results and lessens the possibility of tissue reattachment and scaring. The tongue is an integral organ in our body that has the ability to shape orofacial structures and musculature. We want to optimize growth, development and function of children from birth onwards.

Why it’s important to release a tongue tie in a child and/or adult:
Our goal for each of our patients is optimal growth and development. There is a direct connection between breathing, sleeping, tongue and lip function. Form always follows function. We evaluate each patient to see if the tongue restriction is inhibiting optimal function. Our tongue should comfortably rest in the roof of our mouth at rest and when we swallow. In this position, the tongue is creating pressure on the upper jaw to grow and develop properly. We evaluate each patient and start with myofunctional exercises to strengthen the tongue and establish nasal breathing. As we re-train and strengthen the tongue we will re-evaluate to see if tongue mobility has been improved or a release is necessary.

We offer in-office Lip and Tongue laser frenectomy releases to assist babies, children and adults attain optimal growth and development. Book your consultation today!

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Holly
Medical Device Reprocessing Technician


Holly is the quiet presence at the back of our office that ensures everything is running smoothly and efficiently. You might see her as you walk by the sterilization area busy at work. Outside of the office she is a mom of two beautiful young children and enjoys spending lots of outdoor time with them.

Nanita
Registered Dental Hygienist


With each patient interaction Nanita’s goal is to create a stress free environment for their dental visit. She loves seeing her patients leave smiling with confidence and educating them with the tools so they can reach their optimal dental health.

Outside of the office, Nanita is a busy Mom of 2 amazing kids and a Star Stylist with Stella & Dot. She also loves to travel and cook.

Anissa
Registered Dental Hygienist


Anissa has the magical ability to put everyone at ease. She provides excellent care with warmth and kindness and always shows a genuine interest to get to know her patients. Her expertise and knowledge extends not only periodontal procedures but orthodontics as well.

Guelph is home to Anissa’s entire family. She built many relationships throughout the community.

Stephanie
Registered Dental Hygienist and Oromyofunctional Therapist


Stephanie has a witty sense of humour that puts everyone at ease. You can often hear the laughter coming from her operatory during appointments. She is committed to educating patients about their oral health and motivating them to reach their optimal oral and overall wellness.

Stephanie is also a Myofunctional Provider. She teaches breathing retraining and assesses for any oral muscular dysfunction of lip posture, tongue posture and swallowing. Once correct habits and function have been instilled, then development can reach its full potential.

Stephanie stays very busy with her three boys and enjoys traveling the world.

Teresa
Certified Dental Assistant


Teresa has many years of working in the Guelph dental community. She is all heart and always goes the extra mile to make patients feel comfortable. Her skill and Italian flare make her so enjoyable to be around and integral part of our dental team.

Elaine
Certified Dental Assistant


Elaine has over 30 years experience as a dental assistant (or 99 years as you will often hear her say). She has been working at Harvard Rd Dental Care right from the beginning! Her positive attitude and contagious smile always puts patients at ease. She prides herself on helping educate patients about their oral and dental health and how it relates to their overall wellness. Her greatest joy is being an Omi to her granddaughter, Addison.

Kailynne
Dental Receptionist


Kailynne is probably the kindest person you will ever meet. Always eager to help patients and everyone in the office. She will always greet with a sweet smile while making every effort to make your visit positive.

Kailynne enjoys spending time with her family and loves being with her dog Oliver.

Laurie
Dental Receptionist/Office Manager


Your first interaction at our office will likely be with Laurie. Laurie’s warmth and love of dentistry is apparent in every interaction. All questions are always happily taken care of with Laurie at the helm of our administrative team.

Laurie grew up in Puslinch and is married with 3 children. She truly enjoys yoga, weight lifting and target shooting. Laurie is also very interested in a holistic approach to nourishing and taking care of the body.