Garden Oaks Family & Cosmetic Dentistry Blog

If your child’s pediatric dentist mentioned your loved one having a lip- or tongue-tie, then you may wonder if it’s necessarily an issue. You decide to do your own research about it and come across the many things that this condition can cause. However, amidst your browsing, you are likely to read some myths. Here are four common misconceptions and the truth behind them.

Most parents are aware that lip and tongue-ties can make breastfeeding difficult, but the effects don’t stop there. As babies grow, these restrictions in oral movement can also interfere with the transition to solid foods. From refusing certain textures to struggling with chewing and swallowing, a tie can make mealtimes frustrating for both parents and children. Understanding how ties impact feeding beyond infancy can help you support your child’s development and ensure they get the nutrition they need.

When most people think of lip and tongue-ties, they imagine infants who struggle to breastfeed. But these conditions don’t always disappear with age. In fact, many adults continue to live with lip or tongue-ties without realizing that their speech difficulties, jaw discomfort, or even sleep issues may be connected to the restricted tissue. The good news is that a frenectomy—a simple, in-office procedure—can provide relief at any age.