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Infant Tongue Tie & Lip Tie Release
Does your baby struggle with breastfeeding, is constantly fussy, or has trouble sleeping? Do you find nursing painful?
These are common issues, but just because they are common does not mean that they are normal. We need to find the root cause of the issues, and in many cases, it is linked to a tongue or lip tie. The good news is that early identification and treatment can help your baby get the best start in life.
Your child should be properly evaluated for tongue and lip tie release as soon as possible. Lips and tongues are connected by frenums, or bands of connective tissue. If these connections are too tight, they can interfere with your child’s breastfeeding ability. Tongue ties or lip ties can disrupt feeding, jaw development, and even long-term health, increasing their risk of bite problems like TMJ, breathing problems such as sleep apnea, and a less attractive profile.
Fortunately, a procedure known as frenectomy releases those ties, allowing your child to function and develop normally.
If you or your child needs correction of tongue tie or lip tie in Fairfax County, please call 703-323-8200 today for an appointment with dentist Dr. Sameera Meyer in Burke, VA.
- Tongue Tie (Lingual Frenectomy)
- Lip Tie (Labial Frenectomy)
Common Symptoms of Tongue Ties and Lip Ties
Baby Symptoms
- Gassiness or colic
- Clicking noises during feeding
- Shallow latch when breastfeeding
- Falling asleep while eating
- Blisters on the lips
- Frequent fussiness or "cluster feeding"
- Impaired development of jaws
Mom Symptoms
- Painful nursing
- Creased or flattened nipples
- Blistered or cracked nipples
- Poor breast drainage
- Reduced milk supply
- Clogged ducts, engorgement, or mastitis
- The baby is favoring one side over the other
Recognizing and addressing these signs early can make a world of difference for both you and your baby.
Why Early Treatment Matters
One of the first functions that babies use their tongues and lips for is developing proper latch and sucking motions for breastfeeding. Tongue tie and lip tie can make it hard for a baby to form a proper seal, which not only makes it hard for a baby to latch on and get adequate suction it can cause pain for the mother as well.
In order for Dr. Meyer to ensure your child has the best possible outcome, we take a team approach. That includes partnering with an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). While the laser procedure releases the physical restriction, true healing and progress often come through collaborative care, including feeding support and functional therapy.
What issues can arise if a tongue or lip tie is not addressed?
The tongue is the key factor in proper development of a child’s jaws. A child with a tongue tie may not exert the pressure to push the teeth and jaws outward to develop their jaw adequately.
Speech difficulties and crowded teeth
Children with an underdeveloped arch and a less mobile tongue may experience speech difficulties.
As children’s teeth come in, the lack of development in their jaws can lead to crowding and other problems with their teeth, making them more likely to need orthodontic treatment.
Jaw and airway development problems
Straight teeth are only one small problem associated with a lack of jaw development. Jaw function may also be affected. This can manifest as temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ), bruxism, and other bite problems later in life.
Another important function of your jaw is to shape and support your airway. Children with tongue tie are more likely to develop sleep apnea, which may follow them throughout life.
Early treatment of lip and tongue ties can help children avoid these complications. Long-term health implications.
Every day matters. Early intervention provides the best opportunity for your baby to thrive.
How We Treat Tongue and Lip Ties
Our office provides gentle, safe, and effective treatments for tongue and lip ties using state-of-the-art technology. Dr. Sameera Meyer, a highly trained dentist and mother of two, understands just how overwhelming feeding challenges can feel. Her priority is to help your baby thrive while supporting your entire family.
Using the CO2 Laser for Precision and Comfort
We use the most advanced laser, the LightScalpel CO2 laser for all tongue and lip tie releases. Our laser ensures:
- Surgical precision for minimal tissue disruption.
- Quick procedure times (the laser release takes about 30 seconds!).
- Reduced bleeding and infection risk.
- Faster healing with minimal discomfort.
- No need for general anesthesia.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Here’s how our process works to ensure you and your baby are comfortable every step of the way:
- Step 1: The Consultation
Your first visit begins with Dr. Meyer listening to your concerns, reviewing your baby’s health history, and performing a thorough oral exam. She looks for both physical and functional signs to determine if a tongue or lip tie is present.
For the best results, we collaborate with International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) and, where needed, pediatric physical therapists or chiropractors. The frenectomy releases the tissue, but true healing comes from integrating care like feeding support and functional therapy.
- Step 2: The Procedure
The CO2 laser release is quick and effective:
- We swaddle babies to keep them comfortable
- Provide protective eyewear
- Apply a topical anesthetic.
For safety reasons, parents aren’t allowed in the treatment room during laser procedures, but you can rest assured your baby will be well cared for.
- Step 3: Healing & Aftercare
Healing usually progresses quickly with our advanced CO2 laser. Many babies experience immediate improvements in feeding, while others may need more time to adjust. Every baby is unique, and we’ll guide you through recovery.
A key factor to ensuring the success of the procedure are the post-op stretches that prevent the tissues from reattaching. We will guide you through our stretching protocol and ensure you feel confident with the post-op care.
Follow-up care is critical post-release. We emphasize teamwork with lactation consultants, pediatric physical therapists, or chiropractors to ensure your baby fully integrates the tongue or lip release. We recommend stretching exercises to prevent tissue reattachment.
- Step 4: Follow-Up Visit
Will the procedure hurt my baby?
The use of topical anesthetics and the precision of the CO2 laser minimize discomfort. While some fussiness and crying are natural, the procedure is quick and far less invasive than other methods.
What improvements can I expect after the procedure?
Many babies show improvement in feeding soon after the procedure, while others may take a bit more time as they adjust to their tongue or lip’s new mobility. Every child is unique, and that’s okay. Small milestones are very important and we look for one better feed per day during the healing process
Why choose the CO2 laser over a scalpel?
The CO2 laser offers unparalleled precision and comfort, with reduced bleeding and a faster recovery time. It’s a minimally invasive option designed with your baby’s safety and well-being in mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
Give Your Baby the Best Start in Life
If your baby is experiencing feeding challenges, unusual fussiness, or other issues, don’t wait to get the answers you need. Early detection and treatment of tongue and lip ties can make all the difference in ensuring your baby thrives.
Tongue and Lip Tie Release in Burke
Dr. Sameera Meyer and our compassionate team at Pamela Marzban, DDS, are committed to providing expert care in a warm, supportive environment. Schedule a consultation today at our clinic for clarity, support, and a personalized plan tailored to your child’s needs.
Your baby deserves the best possible start, and so do you.
