Southeast Family Dental

Dr. Laura Geiger

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(317) 359-8000

Southeast Family Dental

6020 Southeastern Ave.
Indianapolis, IN 46237

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Southeast Family Dental > Services > Tongue and Lip Ties

It's crucial for parents to be aware of problems associated with tongue and lip ties.

Tongue and Lip Ties in Indianapolis

A laughing baby and her mother Tongue and lip ties, also known as ankyloglossia and labial frenulum, are conditions that occur when the band of tissue connecting the tongue or lip to the floor of the mouth or gums is unusually tight or restrictive. While some cases of tongue and lip ties may not cause any symptoms or complications, severe cases can affect breastfeeding, speech development, and oral function. It's essential for parents to be aware of these conditions so they can seek appropriate help from dentists in Indianapolis, IN, if needed.

Causes of Tongue and Lip Ties

Genetic Factors — Tongue and lip ties can be hereditary, and a family history of the condition increases the likelihood of a child being born with a tie.
Fetal Development — Tongue and lip ties may occur during fetal development when the tissues that form the tongue and lips fail to separate properly from the floor of the mouth or gums.
Environmental Factors — Certain environmental factors, such as exposure to toxins or medications during pregnancy, may increase the risk of tongue and lip ties in newborns.

Symptoms of Tongue and Lip Ties

Tongue and lip ties in infants and children in Indianapolis, IN, can manifest in various ways, often causing challenges that may go unnoticed at first.

Difficulty Breastfeeding

Tongue ties interfere with breastfeeding by making it difficult for the baby to latch onto the breast properly, leading to nipple pain, poor milk transfer, and inadequate weight gain.

Speech Difficulties

Tongue and lip ties can affect speech development by restricting the movement of the tongue and lips, leading to issues such as difficulty articulating certain sounds or letters.

Oral Function Issues

Tongue and lip ties may affect oral function, including chewing, swallowing, and cleaning the teeth, leading to problems such as food aversions, dental decay, and oral hygiene issues.

Dental Problems

Untreated tongue and lip ties can contribute to dental issues such as misaligned teeth, open bites, and gum recession, requiring orthodontic treatment in later years.

Our Team

Meet More of Our Team

Dr. Laura Geiger

Dr. Geiger is a third-generation dentist, following in the footsteps of her father and grandfather. She joined Southeast Family Dental in 2011 after she graduated from Indiana University School of ...

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Dr. Katie Jones

Dr. Jones graduated from Center Grove High School and received her bachelor's degree from Purdue University. She then attended Indiana University School of Dentistry, where she received her degree in ...

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Dr. Laura Miller-Mouchaham

Dr. Miller Mouchaham is grateful to be back home in Indianapolis and seeing patients at Southeast Family Dental. A Franklin Township native, she graduated from Indiana University Bloomington and attended ...

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Diagnosis of Tongue and Lip Ties in Indianapolis, IN

Clinical Examination — Tongue and lip ties can be diagnosed through a clinical examination by dentists in Indianapolis, IN, who will assess the appearance and function of the tongue and lip frenulum.
Functional Assessment — In addition to visual inspection, they may conduct functional assessments to evaluate the range of motion and mobility of the tongue and lips, as well as any associated symptoms or complications.

It's crucial for parents to consult with our dentists in Indianapolis, IN, to determine the best course of action for their child's specific needs.

Treatment for Tongue and Lip Ties in Indianapolis, IN

Frenotomy — Frenotomy, also known as frenectomy or tongue-tie release, is a minimally invasive procedure used to release the tight or restrictive frenulum, allowing for improved tongue and lip mobility.
Frenuloplasty — Frenuloplasty, a surgical procedure aimed at addressing issues related to tongue and lip ties, involves the release or modification of the frenulum—a band of tissue that connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth or the lip to the gums. This procedure is often recommended when a restrictive frenulum causes difficulties with breastfeeding, speech, or oral function.
Myofunctional Therapy — Myofunctional therapy involves exercises and techniques designed to improve tongue and lip function, strength, and coordination, often used in conjunction with frenotomy to optimize outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's proper care after a tongue or lip tie release?

Proper aftercare following tongue and lip tie release procedures is crucial for a successful recovery. It helps promote healing, reduce discomfort, and prevent complications.

After the procedure, it's important to follow the dentist's instructions diligently. This may include gentle stretches or exercises to prevent reattachment of the ties.
Good oral hygiene is essential during the healing process. Gently cleaning around the wound site can help prevent infection and promote faster healing.
It's normal for babies or children to experience some discomfort after the procedure. Providing pain relief, as the dentist recommends, can help keep them comfortable during this time.
Regular follow-up appointments with our dentists are necessary to monitor progress and address any concerns arising during the healing process.

By prioritizing proper aftercare, you can support your child's recovery and ensure optimal outcomes following tongue and lip tie release procedures.

Please Call Us with Questions

Rest assured that our dentists and dental team will be there before, during, and after your child's tongue or lip tie release procedure. If you have questions or would like to schedule an appointment with one of our dentists in Indianapolis, please call Southeast Family Dental at (317) 359-8000 so we can help you.

Conclusion

Tongue and lip ties in Indianapolis, IN, are common oral conditions affecting infants, children, and adults, impacting breastfeeding, speech development, and oral function. Early recognition and intervention are key to preventing complications and promoting optimal oral health and function.

By understanding the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for tongue and lip ties, parents and caregivers can advocate for their child's oral health needs and work collaboratively with our dentists, Dr. Geiger, Dr. Jones, or Dr. Miller Mouchaham, to achieve positive outcomes.

Early detection and intervention can prevent potential complications in breastfeeding, speech development, dental issues, and more. To learn more about tongue and lip ties, visit Southeast Family Dental at 6020 Southeastern Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46203, or call the Dentist at (317) 359-8000.