A “lip tie” is a condition where a piece of tissue called the frenulum, which connects the upper lip to the gum, is unusually tight or thick. This restriction in movement can cause a variety of challenges, ranging from difficulties with breastfeeding in infants to problems with speech and dental hygiene in older children and adults. Though it may seem like a minor issue, lip tie can have significant effects, especially if left unaddressed. In this article, we’ll explore what lip tie is, how it affects different age groups, and what can be done about it.
A lip tie can cause several feeding and developmental issues for babies, but identifying it early can help address these problems effectively. Here are the top five signs that your baby might have a lip tie:
- Difficulty Latching During Breastfeeding
One of the most noticeable signs of a lip tie is difficulty getting a proper latch during breastfeeding. If your baby struggles to latch onto the breast, or if they frequently slip off the nipple, it could be due to the restriction in the movement of their upper lip caused by a tight frenulum. - Gumming or Clicking Noises
Babies with a lip tie often make gumming or clicking sounds while breastfeeding. This happens when the upper lip doesn’t fully seal around the breast, causing friction and leading to the clicking sound. - Painful Breastfeeding for the Mother
A poor latch caused by lip tie can lead to painful breastfeeding for the mother. The baby may clamp down or move their mouth in a way that pinches the nipple, resulting in sore or cracked nipples. - Failure to Gain Weight
If a baby isn’t able to latch properly or suck efficiently due to a lip tie, they may not get enough milk, which can lead to slow or poor weight gain. This can be an indication that feeding issues are present. - Excessive Fussiness or Irritability During Feedings
Babies with a lip tie may struggle to feed properly, leading to frustration, frequent fussiness, or irritability during feedings. If your baby seems to be hungry but has difficulty settling down to feed, it could be related to a lip tie.
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What Is Lip Tie and How Does It Affect Feeding?
A lip tie is a condition where the piece of tissue called the frenulum, which connects the upper lip to the gums, is abnormally tight or thick. This can limit the movement of the upper lip, making it difficult for individuals to perform certain actions, like breastfeeding or eating. Lip tie is usually noticed in babies but can affect people of all ages, leading to various challenges related to feeding, oral hygiene, and even speech development. In this article, we will focus on how lip tie specifically impacts feeding and what can be done to address it.
What Is the Frenulum?
The frenulum is a band of tissue that connects the inside of your upper lip to your gums. This tissue plays an important role in allowing the lip to move freely when eating, speaking, or making facial expressions. In most cases, the frenulum is flexible and doesn’t restrict the movement of the lip. However, in some people, the frenulum may be too tight, short, or thick, which causes a restriction in the movement of the upper lip. This is referred to as a lip tie.
How Does Lip Tie Affect Feeding in Babies?
One of the most common times a lip tie is noticed is during infancy when a baby begins breastfeeding. A lip tie can interfere with the baby’s ability to latch onto the breast properly, leading to a series of problems related to feeding.
1. Poor Latch
For a baby to breastfeed effectively, they need to latch onto the breast properly. A proper latch requires the baby to create a seal around the nipple using their lips, tongue, and jaw. However, when the frenulum is too tight, it restricts the movement of the upper lip, making it difficult for the baby to form an adequate seal. As a result, the baby may not be able to latch deeply enough onto the breast, leading to a poor feeding session. This can prevent the baby from getting enough milk and cause frustration for both the baby and the mother.
2. Pain for the Mother
A poor latch due to a lip tie can lead to painful breastfeeding for the mother. Since the baby is not latching deeply enough, they might end up pinching the nipple, causing discomfort, pain, or even damage to the nipple. This can make breastfeeding a painful experience, leading mothers to avoid nursing, which can further impact the baby’s nutrition and the mother’s milk supply.
3. Inadequate Milk Intake and Weight Gain
Because babies with a lip tie may struggle to latch properly, they may not be able to feed efficiently. This can result in inadequate milk intake, which may affect the baby’s weight gain. Babies rely on effective breastfeeding to get the nutrition they need, and a restricted latch due to lip tie can interfere with their ability to consume enough milk. This can lead to slow or insufficient weight gain, which may require additional intervention, such as pumping milk or supplementing with formula.
4. Excessive Gumming or Clicking Sounds
Another sign that a baby may have a lip tie is the presence of clicking or gumming sounds during breastfeeding. These noises occur when the baby tries to latch onto the breast but is unable to seal the lips properly. The friction caused by the improper latch can cause these sounds, which often indicate that the baby is not feeding effectively.
How Does Lip Tie Affect Feeding in Older Children and Adults?
While lip tie is often noticed in infancy, it can also affect older children and adults. In these cases, the issues related to feeding can be slightly different but still significant.
1. Difficulty Eating Solid Foods
Older children and adults with a lip tie may also have trouble eating certain solid foods. The restriction in lip movement can make it harder to move food around in the mouth or chew properly. For example, biting into certain foods like apples or sandwiches may be challenging if the upper lip cannot move enough to help in the process of bringing food into the mouth or chewing it.
2. Challenges with Oral Hygiene
A lip tie can make it more difficult to maintain proper oral hygiene. When the lip cannot move freely, it may be harder for individuals to brush their teeth, especially along the upper gums and teeth. This can lead to the accumulation of food particles and plaque, increasing the risk of tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease.
3. Speech Difficulties
In some cases, a lip tie can affect the ability to speak clearly. Since the upper lip is important for making certain sounds, such as “f” and “v,” a restricted lip can make it difficult to pronounce these sounds. This can lead to speech delays or unclear speech in both children and adults.
How to Treat Lip Tie and Improve Feeding
If lip tie is causing feeding problems, it can be addressed through a simple procedure known as a frenotomy or frenuloplasty.
1. Frenotomy
A frenotomy is a quick and minimally invasive procedure in which the tight frenulum is snipped to release the restriction on the upper lip. This is often done in infants by a pediatrician, lactation consultant, or pediatric dentist, usually without the need for anesthesia, as the procedure is relatively painless and takes only a few minutes. For older children or adults, local anesthesia may be used.
2. Frenuloplasty
If the frenulum is thicker or more difficult to cut, a frenuloplasty may be needed. This procedure is more involved and might require stitches to close the tissue after the frenulum is snipped. It’s generally performed under local anesthesia and may require a slightly longer recovery period compared to a frenotomy.
3. Follow-Up and Exercises
After the frenotomy or frenuloplasty, some patients may need to do exercises or stretches to ensure that the lip regains full mobility. For babies, these stretches are often taught to parents to do gently at home. For older children and adults, speech therapy or oral motor exercises may be recommended to help improve lip movement and ensure that feeding and speaking are not affected.
What Exactly is a Lip Tie?
The frenulum is a band of tissue that connects the upper lip to the gums. In a typical scenario, the frenulum allows the upper lip to move freely, allowing for proper sucking, speaking, and smiling. However, when the frenulum is too thick, tight, or short, it can restrict the lip’s movement, causing what’s known as a lip tie. This restriction can vary in severity, from mild cases that may cause little to no issue, to more severe cases where it can affect daily activities, particularly feeding and speaking.
A lip tie can occur on its own or in conjunction with another similar condition known as tongue tie. A tongue tie (ankyloglossia) refers to the restriction of the tongue’s movement, while lip tie affects the upper lip. Sometimes both conditions appear together, making it harder to treat or manage either one individually.
What Causes Lip Tie?
The exact cause of lip tie is not entirely clear, but it is generally considered a developmental issue that happens during pregnancy. It is a congenital condition, meaning it’s present at birth. Most of the time, lip tie occurs as a result of genetic factors, though environmental factors or something that happens during the development of the fetus may also play a role.
Some people may have a lip tie without even realizing it, especially if it doesn’t cause any noticeable problems. For others, the tight frenulum may cause symptoms that interfere with normal activities such as feeding, speaking, or even maintaining oral hygiene.
Signs of Lip Tie in Babies
One of the most common times a lip tie is noticed is in infancy, particularly when a baby begins breastfeeding. Here are some of the signs that a baby may have a lip tie:
- Difficulty breastfeeding: A baby with a lip tie may struggle to latch properly onto the breast. They might have trouble creating a good seal, which can lead to inefficient feeding. This may result in the baby not getting enough milk, which can affect their weight gain.
- Pain during breastfeeding: A poor latch can be painful for the mother, as the baby may end up pinching the nipple, leading to sore or cracked nipples.
- Gumming or clicking sounds: Babies with lip ties may make clicking sounds when nursing, which happens when the lip doesn’t have full range of motion and can’t properly seal around the breast.
- Poor weight gain or feeding issues: If the baby is unable to latch properly and suck effectively, they may not consume enough milk, which could lead to slow weight gain or poor feeding habits.
Signs of Lip Tie in Older Children and Adults
While lip tie is often first noticed in babies, it can also affect older children and adults. In fact, many people live with a lip tie without realizing it, especially if it doesn’t cause significant issues. However, there are some signs that may indicate the presence of a lip tie in older individuals:
- Speech difficulties: A lip tie can sometimes impact the way a person speaks. It can make it harder to pronounce certain sounds, particularly those that involve the upper lip, such as “f” and “v.” In more severe cases, it might also affect the ability to make other sounds clearly.
- Dental problems: Because the upper lip can’t move freely with a lip tie, it may be harder to keep the gums clean. This can increase the risk of tooth decay or gum disease. People with lip ties may also be more likely to develop a gap between their front teeth due to the limited mobility of the lip.
- Cosmetic concerns: In some cases, a lip tie can affect the appearance of the upper lip, causing it to appear pulled tight or uneven. This can lead to self-esteem issues, particularly for older children and adults.
- Difficulty with oral hygiene: The inability to move the upper lip freely can make it harder for individuals to brush their teeth effectively, especially the upper gums and teeth.
Diagnosis of Lip Tie
Diagnosing a lip tie usually begins with a physical exam. Healthcare professionals such as pediatricians, lactation consultants, or dentists can identify the condition by looking at the baby’s mouth and assessing how the upper lip moves. In infants, the frenulum may be visible or palpable when the lip is lifted. In older children or adults, the lip tie may be more subtle and require a more thorough assessment to determine its severity.
In some cases, the doctor may also look for associated conditions like tongue tie, which could complicate treatment. They will also assess whether the lip tie is causing any functional problems, such as difficulty feeding, speaking, or maintaining oral hygiene.
Treatment Options for Lip Tie
Not all cases of lip tie require treatment. In many cases, especially if the lip tie is mild and doesn’t cause significant problems, no intervention is needed. However, if the lip tie is causing difficulty with breastfeeding, speech, or dental hygiene, there are treatment options available.
1. Frenotomy:
The most common treatment for a lip tie is a simple procedure known as a frenotomy. This involves snipping the tight frenulum, allowing the upper lip to move more freely. A frenotomy can often be done in a healthcare provider’s office, and the procedure is quick. For babies, it may be done with a local anesthetic or sometimes without anesthesia, as it is a quick and minimally invasive procedure. Older children and adults may undergo the procedure with local anesthesia for comfort.
2. Frenuloplasty:
In more severe cases, or if the frenulum is thicker or more challenging to cut, a frenuloplasty may be required. This is a more involved procedure, which can also be performed under local anesthesia. It may require stitches to close the area, and the recovery time may be slightly longer compared to a frenotomy.
3. Speech Therapy and Exercises:
After a frenotomy or frenuloplasty, especially in older children and adults, speech therapy and exercises may be recommended. These exercises are designed to help the individual improve the mobility of their upper lip and retrain their mouth for better speech and feeding. This can be especially beneficial if the lip tie had affected speech or eating habits before treatment.
4. Follow-up Care:
After the procedure, it is important to follow up with your healthcare provider to ensure proper healing. In some cases, additional stretches or exercises may be required to help maintain the movement of the upper lip. With proper care, the vast majority of people recover quickly and without any long-term issues.
Potential Complications if Left Untreated
In many cases, lip tie does not require treatment, and individuals can go on to live normal, healthy lives. However, if a lip tie is left untreated and causes ongoing difficulties with breastfeeding, speech, or oral hygiene, it can lead to further complications. For instance, untreated lip tie may contribute to:
- Chronic breastfeeding issues, such as poor milk intake and painful feeding sessions.
- Speech delays, particularly if the lip tie is affecting pronunciation.
- Dental issues, like cavities or gum disease, due to improper oral hygiene.
Why Is It Important to Address Lip Tie Early?
Addressing a lip tie early is important for a variety of reasons, particularly because the condition can have a significant impact on feeding, speech development, and overall oral health. If left untreated, lip tie can cause ongoing problems that might become more difficult to resolve later in life. Here are several reasons why early intervention is key:
- Improved Breastfeeding Experience: For newborns, early treatment of a lip tie can improve breastfeeding by allowing the baby to latch properly and feed more efficiently. A proper latch ensures that the baby is getting enough milk, which is essential for their growth and development. A poor latch caused by a lip tie can lead to frustration, poor weight gain, and even early weaning.
- Preventing Pain for the Mother: A baby with a lip tie can cause pain during breastfeeding due to a poor latch. This discomfort can discourage mothers from continuing breastfeeding, potentially affecting the baby’s nutrition and the mother’s milk supply. Early intervention can prevent such pain and help both the baby and mother enjoy a more positive breastfeeding experience.
- Preventing Long-Term Feeding Issues: If lip tie is not treated early, it can lead to long-term feeding difficulties. Babies who struggle to breastfeed may have trouble transitioning to solid foods, and this can also affect their ability to develop proper oral motor skills later on. Addressing the issue early can help prevent feeding problems from escalating.
- Preventing Speech Delays: Early treatment can also help prevent speech delays that can result from restricted lip movement. The ability to move the lip freely is essential for the articulation of certain sounds. Addressing a lip tie early ensures that the child’s oral motor skills develop properly, reducing the risk of speech difficulties later in life.
- Better Oral Hygiene: Lip tie can also make it harder for individuals to brush their teeth effectively. Early intervention allows children to have proper lip mobility, making it easier to clean their gums and teeth. This can prevent oral hygiene issues like cavities or gum disease as they grow older.
When Should You Consult a Specialist About Lip Tie?
It’s important to consult a specialist if you suspect that a lip tie is affecting feeding, speech, or overall oral health. Early intervention can prevent further complications, so knowing when to seek help is crucial. Here are some situations where you should consult a healthcare provider or specialist about lip tie:
- Breastfeeding Difficulties: If your baby is having trouble latching onto the breast, especially if they exhibit symptoms like clicking, gumming, or discomfort during nursing, it may be a sign of a lip tie. A lactation consultant, pediatrician, or pediatric dentist can assess the baby’s mouth and determine if a lip tie is causing these issues.
- Pain or Discomfort for the Mother: If you experience pain while breastfeeding, especially sharp or consistent nipple pain, it could be due to your baby not latching properly because of a lip tie. A healthcare provider can evaluate the cause of the pain and recommend a solution, such as a frenotomy or tips on improving latch techniques.
- Failure to Thrive or Poor Weight Gain: If your baby is not gaining weight as expected or seems hungry frequently despite frequent feedings, it might be due to insufficient milk intake caused by a poor latch due to lip tie. A pediatrician can assess the situation and suggest possible treatments.
- Speech or Articulation Issues: In older children, if speech delays or articulation problems arise, it might be linked to a lip tie. If the child struggles to pronounce certain sounds like “f” and “v,” it’s worth consulting a speech-language pathologist or an ENT specialist. They can determine whether lip tie is contributing to the problem and whether treatment is necessary.
- Difficulty Eating Solid Foods or Oral Hygiene Problems: If an older child or adult is having trouble eating certain foods or maintaining proper oral hygiene due to a restricted upper lip, it’s time to consult a dentist or oral health specialist. A lip tie can hinder the ability to chew or brush effectively, and a dental professional can recommend treatment.
How Can Lip Tie Impact Speech Development?
A lip tie can have a significant impact on speech development, particularly as a child begins to learn how to articulate words. The upper lip plays a crucial role in the pronunciation of certain sounds, including the “f” and “v” sounds, as well as certain sounds involving the lips and teeth, like “b,” “p,” and “m.” When the frenulum restricts the movement of the upper lip, it can make it difficult for children to form these sounds properly. This can lead to:
- Articulation Difficulties: A child with a lip tie may have trouble making clear and accurate speech sounds. For example, they might struggle to pronounce “f” and “v” correctly because the lip cannot move freely to make contact with the teeth. This can result in speech that is unclear or difficult for others to understand.
- Speech Delays: If a lip tie is not addressed, it can delay speech development. The restriction in lip movement can prevent the child from being able to move their lips in the way they need to for proper speech. This can delay their ability to start speaking clearly and form words appropriately.
- Frustration and Social Challenges: As children with speech difficulties try to communicate, they may experience frustration if they are unable to make themselves understood by others. This can lead to social challenges and feelings of self-consciousness. Early treatment of a lip tie can help prevent speech delays and improve the child’s ability to communicate effectively.
- Impact on Self-Confidence: Children who have difficulty speaking clearly may become self-conscious about their speech and may even avoid speaking in front of others. This can affect their social interactions and self-esteem. Treating lip tie early can ensure that speech development proceeds without unnecessary barriers.
Where to Find Resources and Support for Lip Tie?
If you or your child has been diagnosed with a lip tie, there are several resources available to help you navigate the treatment process and get the support you need. Here are some helpful places to find information and assistance:
- Pediatricians and Lactation Consultants: If you are concerned about your baby’s breastfeeding issues or suspect a lip tie, start by consulting your pediatrician. Pediatricians can help diagnose lip tie and refer you to a lactation consultant if necessary. Lactation consultants are trained to help with breastfeeding challenges and can guide you in improving your baby’s latch.
- Pediatric Dentists and Oral Surgeons: For older children or adults who may be dealing with issues related to lip tie, such as difficulty eating or oral hygiene problems, a pediatric dentist or oral surgeon can assess the situation. They may recommend a frenotomy or frenuloplasty if treatment is necessary.
- Speech-Language Pathologists: If you are concerned about speech delays or articulation problems caused by a lip tie, a speech-language pathologist (SLP) can provide an evaluation. An SLP can help develop a treatment plan that may include exercises and speech therapy to improve articulation and speech clarity.
- Support Groups and Online Communities: There are various online support groups and forums where parents and individuals dealing with lip tie can share experiences and advice. Websites like The International Affiliation of Tongue-Tie Professionals (IATP) and The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) offer resources and information on how to find specialists and treatments for lip tie.
- Educational Websites and Blogs: Many educational websites and blogs provide helpful information on lip tie, its impact, and available treatments. These resources can offer valuable insights, personal stories, and expert opinions on the best ways to address the condition.
Addressing lip tie early is important for preventing feeding issues, speech delays, and other complications related to oral health. If you suspect that lip tie is affecting your baby or child, consulting a specialist like a pediatrician, lactation consultant, or speech-language pathologist can help determine the best course of action. With early intervention, many of the challenges caused by lip tie can be resolved, leading to a healthier and more comfortable experience for both the child and the family.
7 Common Myths About Lip Tie Debunked
There are many misconceptions about lip tie that can cause confusion for parents. Here are seven common myths about lip tie, along with the facts that debunk them:
- Myth: Lip tie is Rare.
Fact: Lip tie is more common than people think, and many babies are born with it. It is often overlooked, especially if it doesn’t cause major issues early on. - Myth: A Lip Tie Will Fix Itself Over Time.
Fact: While some babies may adapt to a lip tie over time, it’s unlikely that the condition will improve without treatment. If a lip tie is causing feeding problems or other issues, it’s best to address it early. - Myth: Lip Tie Always Affects Breastfeeding.
Fact: Not all lip ties cause breastfeeding difficulties. Some babies may have a lip tie but breastfeed perfectly well. However, in cases where there are challenges, treatment can help. - Myth: Lip Tie Is Just a Cosmetic Issue.
Fact: Lip tie can have functional impacts, such as difficulty feeding, speech delays, and oral hygiene problems. It’s not just a cosmetic issue and should be taken seriously if it causes problems. - Myth: Frenotomy (Treatment for Lip Tie) Is Dangerous.
Fact: Frenotomy is a safe, quick, and effective procedure that is often done with minimal discomfort. When performed by a trained professional, the risk of complications is very low. - Myth: Lip Tie Is Caused by Poor Parenting.
Fact: Lip tie is a congenital condition, meaning it’s something babies are born with. It’s not caused by anything the parents did during pregnancy or birth. - Myth: Only Babies Can Have Lip Tie.
Fact: While lip tie is commonly diagnosed in babies, older children and adults can also have lip tie. It can affect speech and dental health if left untreated.
10 FAQs About Lip Tie You Should Know
Here are 10 frequently asked questions about lip tie that can help clarify some key points:
- What is a lip tie?
A lip tie is a condition where the frenulum, the band of tissue connecting the upper lip to the gum, is abnormally tight or thick, restricting the movement of the lip. - How can I tell if my baby has a lip tie?
Signs of lip tie include difficulty latching, painful breastfeeding for the mother, clicking noises during feeding, and poor weight gain. - Can a lip tie affect breastfeeding?
Yes, a lip tie can make it difficult for a baby to latch properly, leading to breastfeeding challenges such as poor milk intake and nipple pain for the mother. - Is lip tie always noticeable at birth?
Sometimes lip tie is subtle and might not be immediately noticeable. It may become evident later when feeding issues or other problems arise. - How is lip tie treated?
Treatment for lip tie typically involves a procedure called frenotomy, where the tight frenulum is snipped to release the lip. This can often be done in a healthcare provider’s office. - Is treatment necessary?
Treatment may be necessary if the lip tie is causing feeding problems, speech delays, or dental issues. Some mild cases might not require treatment if no problems are present. - Can lip tie cause speech problems?
Yes, a lip tie can affect speech development by restricting the movement of the upper lip, which is necessary for articulating certain sounds. - How soon after treatment will my baby be able to breastfeed normally?
Most babies can breastfeed more effectively immediately after treatment, though it may take some time to adjust to the new movement of the lip. - Can lip tie cause dental issues later in life?
Yes, a restricted upper lip can make it difficult to maintain proper oral hygiene, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. - Can lip tie come back after treatment?
In most cases, lip tie does not return after treatment. However, in rare cases, a child may require additional procedures if the frenulum regrows or heals improperly.
5 Essential Treatments for Lip Tie in Infants
If you’ve identified that your baby has a lip tie and it is causing problems, there are several treatment options available. Here are five essential treatments:
- Frenotomy:
This is a simple procedure where the healthcare provider cuts the tight frenulum to release the lip. It is typically quick, minimally invasive, and performed with local anesthesia for babies. - Frenuloplasty:
For more severe cases, a frenuloplasty may be necessary. This involves a more involved procedure where the frenulum is modified, and stitches may be required for healing. - Lactation Support:
In addition to medical treatments, working with a lactation consultant can help improve breastfeeding techniques and ensure a proper latch after the lip tie has been addressed. - Tongue Tie Treatment (If Present):
In many cases, lip tie occurs alongside tongue tie. If your baby also has a tongue tie, treatment for both may be necessary to fully address feeding issues. - Post-Procedure Exercises:
After treatment, you may be given exercises to perform at home, such as gently stretching the lip or massaging the area to prevent reattachment and encourage full movement.
8 Tips for Parents Dealing with Lip Tie
Here are eight practical tips for parents who are navigating the challenges of lip tie:
- Be Patient During Feedings:
If your baby is struggling with feeding due to a lip tie, be patient and try different positions to help them latch more comfortably. - Seek Help from a Lactation Consultant:
A lactation consultant can provide guidance on how to improve your baby’s latch and feeding technique while you await treatment. - Look for Signs of Feeding Problems:
Keep an eye out for signs like fussiness, poor weight gain, or nipple pain that may indicate your baby has a lip tie. - Talk to Your Pediatrician:
If you suspect your baby has a lip tie, talk to your pediatrician. They can help with diagnosis and provide referrals to specialists if needed. - Follow Up After Treatment:
After a frenotomy or other treatment, follow up with your healthcare provider to ensure your baby’s lip heals properly and feeding improves. - Consider Your Own Comfort:
If breastfeeding is painful for you, don’t hesitate to reach out for help, whether it’s through support groups, lactation consultants, or family members. - Watch for Speech Delays:
If your baby seems to be struggling with speech development as they grow older, consult with a speech therapist to determine if a lip tie could be contributing to the issue. - Join a Support Group:
Connecting with other parents who have dealt with lip tie can provide emotional support and practical tips on how to manage the condition.
Conclusion
A lip tie is a condition that can affect people at any age, but it is most commonly noticed in infancy. While it can cause problems like difficulties with breastfeeding or speech, many cases of lip tie can be treated with a simple procedure called a frenotomy. If left untreated, it can lead to more severe complications, including problems with oral hygiene and speech. However, with early intervention, most individuals can overcome the challenges associated with lip tie and enjoy better overall health and wellbeing.
If you suspect that you or your child has a lip tie, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider who can assess the situation and recommend the best course of action. With proper diagnosis and treatment, lip tie doesn’t have to be a barrier to a happy, healthy life.