Are you wondering whether your baby has a lip tie or a tongue tie? At Durham Tongue Tie Laser Clinic, we’re here to help. Our doctors can perform the frenectomy procedure to cut or laser away any ties preventing your baby from functioning normally. We’re happy to answer any questions you have.

Lip and Tongue Tie

We can tell if your baby has a lip and tongue tie by following the below outline when it comes to examining their mouth. Your baby may have a lip and tongue tie if they display any one of the following signs:

  • Difficulty breastfeeding
  • Colic and gas
  • Inability to latch on while breastfeeding
  • Excessive crying while breastfeeding
  • Frequent choking or gagging while eating solid food
  • Excessive drooling
  • Speech problems in older children that persist despite speech therapy

Your baby may have a tongue tie if they display any one of the following signs:

  • Difficulty breastfeeding
  • Colic and gas
  • Inability to latch on while breastfeeding
  • Excessive crying while breastfeeding
  • Frequent choking or gagging while eating solid food

What Is a Lip Tie?

A lip tie, also known as an upper labial frenum, is when the piece of tissue connecting the upper lip to the gums is too restrictive on movement. The lip tie limits the ability of an infant to properly nurse at their mother’s breast or get enough nutrition from their bottle. In addition to making it difficult for babies to eat properly and drink enough milk, it can also lead to jaw problems down the road due to restricted movement of the upper teeth. Lip ties can be easily treated with laser surgery in most cases!

What is a Tongue-Tie?

A tongue-tie (also known as ankyloglossia) is when a membrane in the mouth, called the frenulum, restricts the movement of the tongue. If you have trouble sticking your tongue out past your lips, flicking it from side to side, or moving it up and down, you may suffer from a tongue tie.

Many people with tongue ties don’t realize they have one until they are adults. While some can live with their tongue-tie without experiencing significant problems, many others are looking for solutions.

What is a Frenectomy?

A frenectomy is a treatment that removes an abnormal band of tissue in the mouth, which can cause problems with speech, eating, and dental care. We provide laser frenectomies to help alleviate the associated health issues that can arise due to a lip and tongue tie.

Lip and Tongue-Tie Experts

At Durham Tongue Tie Laser Clinic, we specialize in laser frenectomies. This procedure is performed using a laser to separate the skin under your tongue or upper lip from the gums. It’s quick and done right here in our office.

Frenectomies are usually recommended if you’re having trouble with things like speaking clearly or eating certain foods or if you’re having trouble keeping your teeth clean due to excess tissue covering them. We offer this service to people of all ages, including children.

If you think your child might benefit from a frenectomy, contact us at 905-579-2442 to schedule an appointment today!