Tongue ties and lip ties are disorders found in babies and a few children older than a baby. A tongue tie or a lip tie is a band of tissue that limits the freedom of movement of the lip or the tongue. A lip tie occurs when tissue binding or connecting the top lip to the gums is excessively tight. A tongue tie occurs when tissue linking the tongue to the bottom of the mouth is short or thicker.
These two conditions can at times contribute to feeding and breastfeeding difficulties. If a baby has a tongue or lip tie, they will be unable to latch successfully when breastfeeding. The feeding becomes problematic, and both the mother and the baby will be uncomfortable.
How Lip and Tongue Ties Can Affect Babies?
If a baby is unable to feed well, it can result in gas and colic. Colic refers to a baby that cries a lot, usually because of tummy (stomach) pain. Babies with lip or tongue ties can swallow excess air during feeding, which can result in gas developing in their tummies.
Can a lip tie make a baby gassy? Yes, it can! If a baby has a lip tie, they may not be able to get a good seal when they’re breastfeeding or bottle-feeding. This will lead them to gulp air. The more air they ingest, the more gassy they’ll become, which will cause them discomfort and crying.
Signs of Colic in Babies
Signs that a baby may have colic include:
- Excessive crying, usually for more than three hours a day
- Fussy behavior during feeding times
- Clenching their fists and arching their back
- Crying that usually happens at the same time each day
It’s important for parents to recognize these signs early. If a baby is very gassy or seems uncomfortable while feeding, a lip or tongue tie could be the cause.
The Connection Between Lip & Tongue Ties and Colic
A baby with a lip tie or tongue tie may have trouble feeding, which can lead to:
1. More Air Swallowed During Feeding
When a baby cannot latch properly, they take in air while drinking milk. This can cause gas, bloating, and stomach pain, leading to long periods of crying.
2. Feeding Takes Longer and Is Frustrating
A baby with a tongue tie may not be able to suck effectively. This makes them work harder to get milk, leading to frustration and hunger.
3. Discomfort and Poor Digestion
When a baby swallows too much air, it can make digestion harder, causing discomfort. This can make the baby fussy and irritable.
What to Do If You Suspect a Lip or Tongue Tie?
If you think your baby may have a lip or tongue tie, it’s best to consult a professional. They can examine the baby’s mouth and determine if a tie is present. If a tie is diagnosed and is affecting the baby’s feeding, treatment options include:
- Consultation: Discuss with a healthcare provider about the symptoms.
- Approval: If treatment is necessary, you will get guidance on what to do next.
- Procedure: A simple procedure can help release the lip or tongue tie.
- Follow-Up: It’s important to monitor the baby’s feeding after treatment.
Addressing Common Concerns
Some parents worry about how these ties might impact their children as they grow. Does removing teeth affect face shape? In most cases, it does not permanently alter a child’s face shape. Proper dental care and guidance can ensure healthy development.
How Lip and Tongue Ties Are Treated?
If a baby has a lip tie or tongue tie, a professional may recommend a simple procedure called a frenectomy. This involves cutting the tight tissue under the lip or tongue to allow better movement.
The procedure:
✔ Is quick and often painless.
✔ Helps improve feeding.
✔ Can reduce gas and colic symptoms.
✔ May improve weight gain in babies.
After treatment, babies often feed more comfortably, reducing the chances of colic.
Colic Relief Starts With the Right Treatment!
If you are looking for help with lip and tongue ties, the Tampa Tongue-Tie Center is here for you. At our center, we understand how important it is for babies to eat and feel comfortable. Lip and tongue ties can cause feeding problems, leading to issues like colic and gas. Our team at tongue tie center in Tampa is dedicated to helping children get the care they need to have better feeding experiences.
We are ready to help you and your child find comfort and happiness. Don’t wait; reach out to us today for a consultation!