What happens if you dont fix a lip tie?

Understanding Lip Ties
A lip tie occurs when the soft tissue connecting the upper lip to the gums is too tight or short, restricting the movement of the lip. This condition can significantly impact various aspects of a person’s life, particularly in infancy and childhood. While some may dismiss it as a minor issue, the implications of leaving a lip tie untreated can be profound.
Consequences of Not Addressing a Lip Tie
If a lip tie is not corrected, several complications can arise, affecting both physical health and quality of life.
1. Breastfeeding Difficulties: One of the most immediate concerns for infants with a lip tie is the challenge it poses during breastfeeding. The restricted lip movement can lead to ineffective latching, which may result in poor weight gain for the baby and frustration for the mother. This can also lead to painful breastfeeding experiences, potentially causing mothers to stop breastfeeding earlier than intended.
2. Dental Issues: As children grow, an untreated lip tie can lead to various dental problems. The restricted movement can affect the alignment of teeth and the development of the jaw. This misalignment can result in gaps between teeth, increased risk of cavities, and other orthodontic issues that may require extensive treatment later on.
3. Speech Development: A lip tie can also impact speech. The limited mobility of the lip may hinder the ability to articulate certain sounds, potentially leading to speech delays or difficulties. This can affect a child’s communication skills and confidence as they grow.
4. Oral Hygiene Challenges: The inability to fully move the lip can make it difficult to maintain proper oral hygiene. This can lead to an increased risk of gum disease and other oral health issues, as food particles and plaque may accumulate more easily in the areas that are hard to clean.
5. Social and Emotional Effects: Beyond the physical implications, there can be social and emotional consequences as well. Children with untreated lip ties may experience teasing or bullying due to speech difficulties or noticeable dental issues, which can affect their self-esteem and social interactions.
The Importance of Early Intervention
Given these potential complications, early intervention is crucial. Many experts advocate for assessing lip ties in infants and addressing them if they are causing significant issues. Treatment options typically involve a simple procedure known as a frenectomy, which can be performed quickly and often without the need for general anesthesia.
In conclusion, while a lip tie may seem like a minor concern, the ramifications of leaving it untreated can be extensive, affecting everything from breastfeeding to dental health and emotional well-being. Parents and caregivers should be vigilant in recognizing the signs of a lip tie and seek professional advice to ensure the best outcomes for their children.

What does a severe lip tie look like?

Lip-ties look different depending on the severity of the tie: a small, string-like appearance on one end of the spectrum and a wide, fanlike band of connective tissue on the other.

What age is best for lip tie release?

A frenectomy is used to correct lip or tongue tie. It is recommended your child has the simple procedure before the age of 12 months to prevent the need for anesthesia or sedation; however, it can be performed when they are older as well. The entire treatment generally takes less than one minute to complete.

When should I be concerned about a lip tie?

Level 1 and Level 2 lip ties are typically left alone and do not require revision. If there’s a tongue tie as well as a lip tie restricting your baby’s ability to feed, a pediatrician may advise you to “revise” or “release” them both, even if the lip tie is considered to be Level 1 or Level 2.

Can you fix a lip tie without surgery?

They may also recommend using an adhesive called Plica tape to treat a severe lip tie. You can use this in both the front and back of the mouth of your baby. Using this tape will help keep the skin under your baby’s lip from stretching too much as it grows.

When is it too late to fix a lip tie?

Should Lip-Ties in Babies Be Corrected? In order to fix the lip or tongue knot, a frenectomy is performed. To avoid the need for anesthesia or sedation, it is advised that your child undergo quick treatment before 12 months, but it can also be done when they are older.

Is it worth fixing a lip tie?

Lip-ties often improve on their own as a child gets older, and there’s no good evidence that surgery to correct lip-ties is needed. Ask your baby’s doctor to weigh in if you’re concerned, and talk to a lactation consultant if you’re having trouble breastfeeding.

How much does it cost to fix a lip tie?

Frenectomy usually costs between $400 and $2500, with an average cost of $800.

What is the best age to release a lip tie?

After the first two weeks, specifically between 2-6 weeks of age is a great time to move forward with treatment for lip tie and/or tongue tie as the suck reflex is still strong and the process of retraining a baby to suck properly after the procedure is easier.

What happens if a lip tie goes untreated?

Prolonged Issues
Besides eating, a lip tie can cause crowded teeth due to limited dental growth. Limited movement often delays speech development and results in speech impediments later in life. Mouth breathing, hygiene issues, and sleep disordered breathing are other potential symptoms of an untreated lip tie.

Is it OK to leave a lip tie?

A lip tie in infants affect breastfeeding and may involve a corrective procedure called a frenectomy. If your baby is eating and gaining weight, they may not need a frenectomy, since the frenulum can shrink as your baby gets older.