Lip tie is not a disease or illness; it is an anatomical difference found in some babies. This condition is when the gum tissue attaching to a baby's top lip is very tight, making it difficult for them to move it. This only needs to be treated by a pediatric dentist when a baby cannot latch onto its mother for breastfeeding purposes. Here's what you need to know about it.

What Are the Symptoms?

A parent or dental professional might notice a baby has lip tie if they have a more noticeable labial frenulum, or short and tight upper gum tissue. You can tell whether it is abnormally tight if it is difficult for you or your baby to lift their upper lip. Sometimes this condition doesn't require treatment, but you should consult your pediatric dentist if you have pain and difficulty during breastfeeding or if the baby prefers drinking from a bottle.

You may also notice physical symptoms as a result of this condition. Mothers can have itchy, sore, or cracked nipples or be more prone to breastfeeding-related infections. Babies can be dehydrated and malnourished, not gaining weight quickly enough to support their growing bodies. 

How Can It Be Treated?

Lip tie is treatable through a laser procedure that cuts the labial frenulum, with a low risk of infection or complications for your baby. This frees the baby's upper lip, allowing them to nurse comfortably and removing all previous complications from having a lip tie. Anesthesia is not required; a dentist simply applies a numbing agent to a baby's upper gums while their caregiver is in the room. The procedure only takes a couple of minutes and the cost may be covered depending on your insurance.

If you suspect your baby has lip tie, visit Alaska Dentistry for Kids in Anchorage, AK. This pediatric dentist specializes in children's dental care and provides general dental care, help for lip and tongue ties, emergency services, and other dental procedures for infants, toddlers, children, and teenagers. Learn more about lip ties and how this dentistry can help on their website, or call (907) 274-2525 to make an appointment.