Posterior Tongue Tie
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Tongue TieTongue tie (also referred to as Ankyloglossia, Short Frenulum, or Tethered Oral Tissues) is a short, thick lingual frenulum that restricts the mobility of the tongue, particularly it's ability to lift to the palate, and is nearly always associated with a lip tie. Often times a tongue tie restricts the tongue from extending beyond the lower gum line during suckling. This can significantly impact feeding and may cause the baby to use compensatory, abnormal tongue and jaw movements during breast or bottle feeding. Tongue humping, thrusting and chomping on the breast or bottle for stability commonly occurs.
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Upper Lip Tie (ULT)
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Lip TieNearly everyone has a visible upper lip frenum, but only those with restriction in function are identified as having an upper lip tie (ULT). It is necessary for the lips to form an adequate seal on the breast to aid in thorough milk removal. The lip(s) with restriction may not be able to latch well enough to generate the negative pressure needed for breastfeeding. Frenectomy providers may release both (or all) tethered oral tissues to reduce or resolve compensatory muscle use, and other providers will prefer to start with the release of the tongue and if not enough improvement is noted by the breastfeeding mother, will revisit releasing additional restrictions.
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Buccal Tie Right Cheek
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Buccal TieBuccal ties are abnormal mucosal tethers extending from the cheeks to the gingiva and occasionally interfere with breastfeeding. In some situations, buccal ties can further restrict a baby’s ability to achieve an adequate latch for breastfeeding. As with upper lip ties, buccal ties may also harbor bacteria leading to risk of gingivitis and cavities. These ties may eventually contribute to gum recession.
Fortunately, buccal ties are easily released the same way as tongue tie and lip ties. Just as with upper lip ties, stretching exercises are recommended to prevent reattachment. |
Tongue and Lip Tie Red Flags
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