41-B. What is a lip tie procedure for infants?

A lip tie occurs when the tissue connecting a baby’s upper lip to the gums (labial frenulum) is tight or restrictive. This can affect feeding, comfort, and sometimes growth.

A simple procedure called a frenectomy (or frenotomy) can release this tissue, allowing better lip movement and improving feeding. It’s a quick procedure, often performed with scissors or a laser, and most babies can nurse right away with minimal discomfort and a fast recovery.

Common Signs of a Lip Tie

In Infants:

Difficulty latching or maintaining a good latch
Clicking noises, fussiness, or frustration during feeding
Long feeding sessions or frequent breaks
Poor weight gain
Milk leaking from the mouth, gagging, or reflux-like symptoms

For Breastfeeding Mothers:

Nipple pain, cracking, or bleeding
Engorgement or clogged ducts
Low milk supply or mastitis
Feeding-Related Clues
Shallow latch or poor milk transfer
Noisy feeding due to air intake
Falling asleep quickly while feeding from fatigue
Frequent stops to breathe or reposition
Physical Signs
A visible tight band of tissue under the upper lip
Difficulty lifting or flanging the upper lip outward
Blisters or calluses on the lip from friction
Effects on Growth and Comfort

Lip ties can sometimes lead to:

Poor weight gain
Gassiness, colic, or reflux-like symptoms
Feeding aversion

For mothers, ongoing discomfort can affect both comfort and milk supply.

Treatment Overview
Performed by trained pediatric dentists, physicians, or ENT specialists
The tight tissue is gently released using scissors or laser
Quick procedure with minimal discomfort and no stitches
Simple stretches may be recommended afterward to support healing
Often treated alongside a tongue tie if both are present
Why Early Treatment Matters

Addressing a significant lip tie early can:

Improve feeding and comfort
Support healthy oral development
Help prevent future dental or speech concerns

If left untreated in more severe cases, it may contribute to ongoing feeding challenges, growth concerns, or dental issues later on.

Signs in Older Children

If a lip tie isn’t treated and causes issues, you may notice:

A gap between the front teeth
Difficulty cleaning around the gums
Food getting trapped easily
Speech challenges or increased risk of cavities
When to Seek an Evaluation

Not all lip ties require treatment. Some mild cases improve with lactation support or positioning changes. However, if symptoms persist, it’s best to seek an evaluation from a pediatric dentist, pediatrician, or lactation specialist experienced with oral ties.

At Cedar View Pediatric Dentistry in Cedar City, Utah, we provide gentle evaluations and personalized care. After treatment, most babies recover quickly, and simple exercises can help ensure proper healing.