LIP TIE
What is a Lip Tie?
Understanding the Basics
A lip tie occurs when the tissue connecting the upper lip to the gums (called the labial frenulum) is unusually tight or thick. This can limit the natural movement of the lip and may cause difficulties in feeding, speech, or oral development. At Brite Bite, we find that many lip ties that we evaluate, can be normal anatomy and do not require treatment.
Lip Tie vs Tongue Tie
While both conditions involve restrictive oral tissue, tongue ties (ankyloglossia) affect the tissue below the tongue. Babies can have both. Lip ties are often discovered during breastfeeding evaluations, since they can impact latch and milk transfer.
Common Types and Classification
Lip ties can be categorized from Class I to Class IV, depending on how far the frenulum extends down the gums. The higher the number, the more severe the restriction.
Signs & Symptoms of Lip Tie
In Infants
Lip ties can cause feeding challenges, such as difficulty latching or staying latched during breastfeeding. Babies may produce clicking sounds, show signs of gassiness, or take unusually long to feed. These issues can lead to poor weight gain and irritability during or after feeds. We see many babies at Brite Bite who were referred by their pediatrician or family doctor for consultation.
In Toddlers and Children
As children grow, lip ties may affect speech and oral hygiene. A visible gap between the front teeth (diastema) is common, and some children experience discomfort when brushing their upper gums.
Breastfeeding Challenges (For Parents)
Parents may experience nipple pain, recurring plugged ducts, or a drop in milk supply. If these problems persist despite good breastfeeding technique, a lip tie may be contributing and should be evaluated. We usually recommend seeking support of a lactation consult in conjunction with evaluation in our office. This multi-disciplinary approach can improve outcomes.
Diagnosis & Treatment Options
How Lip Ties Are Diagnosed
At Brite Bite, we begin with a detailed oral examination to assess the lip’s mobility and the thickness or length of the frenulum. Using classification tools and functional assessments, we determine whether the lip tie is likely to cause issues with feeding, speech, or oral hygiene. In some cases, we may also coordinate with lactation consultants or specialists for a more holistic evaluation, especially if breastfeeding difficulties are present.
Frenectomy Procedure and Recovery
When treatment is recommended, a quick in-office procedure called a frenectomy is typically performed using a soft-tissue laser. The laser allows for a gentle, precise release of the restricted tissue with minimal discomfort. Most babies are able to feed right away following the procedure. We provide simple post-treatment care instructions, including gentle stretches to reduce the risk of reattachment. Families often notice immediate improvement in feeding comfort and efficiency. We can almost always provide same day treatment for lip-ties immediately after the consultation appointment.
