If your infant or toddler has been diagnosed with a lip tie, you may be wondering how serious this condition is, and how important it is to correct. After all, if it’s more trouble than it’s worth, then why bother? But the truth is, failure to treat a lip tie during early childhood can have myriad lasting effects that carry into adulthood. Here are some of the risks of not treating lip tie in your infant or toddler, and how they can cause oral health problems for a lifetime.
What is a Lip Tie?
Lip tie is a condition that affects about five percent of all children. It occurs when the skin of the upper lip is attached to the gums in such a way that it prevents the lips from moving properly. This can make breastfeeding difficult in babies, but it can cause many other problems throughout your child’s life if not treated.
Lip Tie: A Growing Problem
In addition to the struggles to nurse during infancy, lip tie can cause many more issues as your child grows. These include:
Childhood Difficulties
- Problems chewing solid foods
- Frequent gagging, choking, or vomiting foods
- Oral health difficulties such as problems brushing and flossing properly
- Drooling or dribbling food
- Speech delays or speech deterioration
- Behavior problems
- Low self-esteem
- Snoring
- Airway and breathing issues such as mouth breathing
Unfortunately, these problems could only get worse with time and can continue to affect your child into adulthood. Additionally, they may also experience more issues later in life, including:
Adulthood Difficulties
- Problems opening the mouth widely, which can negatively affect speech and eating habits
- Inability to speak clearly when talking loudly, softly, or fast
- Inability to speak clearly after minimal alcohol
- Jaw pain or clicking
- Migraine headaches
- Protrusion of the lower jaw
- Lack of self-confidence in interpersonal relationships
- Increased risk of gum inflammation and cavities
- Difficulties keeping dentures in place in older adults
As you can see, just because your child survived nursing with a lip tie doesn’t mean their struggles are over. Failing to treat this condition can have many negative effects that last throughout their childhood and adulthood, diminishing their quality of life. Protect your child’s smile and set them up for a lifetime of success. Speak to your pediatric dentist today about the benefits of a laser frenectomy.
About Our Practice
At Glen Ellyn Pediatric Dentistry, our skilled and caring team of pediatric dental experts is proud to provide a variety of oral health treatments designed specifically for your child. Whether it’s their first dental exam, an appointment for a child with special needs, or a consultation to correct a lip or tongue tie, our dentists are here to assist you every step of the way.
To schedule a consultation for a laser frenectomy, please visit our website or call us today at 630-858-8755.