Lip Tongue Ties
Lip & Tongue Tie Treatment for Kids in Overland Park
Supporting Feeding, Speech, and Healthy Development
Lip and tongue ties are common conditions that can affect how a child eats, speaks, and develops. When needed, early evaluation and treatment can make a meaningful difference.
At Sweet Tooth Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we provide gentle, thorough evaluations and treatment options to help your child thrive while keeping you informed and confident every step of the way.
What Are Lip and Tongue Ties?
Under your tongue and lip, there is a small tissue called the frenulum. Sometimes in newborns, this tissue is too short or too thick, resulting in restricted movement of your child's tongue or lip. This can effect their ability to eat and can cause dental problems as they age.
It's best to a treat lip or tongue tie as early as possible to prevent further complications as your child grows. Sweet Tooth Pediatric Dentistry specializes in comprehensive dental care that is comfortable and safe for kids of all ages.
Lip and tongue ties can have a significant impact on breastfeeding. Infants with these conditions may experience difficulty latching properly, leading to feeding challenges for both the baby and the breastfeeding parent. Early detection and intervention are crucial to support successful breastfeeding.
Pediatric Dentistry
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A Thoughtful, Supportive Approach
At Sweet Tooth Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we understand that every child is different.
We focus on clear, honest communication, individualized recommendations, all while providing a calm, supportive experience for families.
Our goal is to help you make the best decision for your child with confidence.
Signs Your Child May Have a Lip or Tongue Tie
Lip and tongue ties occur in 4 to 11 percent of newborns and appear more often in boys. There are a few signs that your child may be affected:
- Poor latch (breast or bottle)
- Leakage of milk from the mouth while eating
- Slides off nipple of falls asleep while attempting to latch
- Colic symptoms
- Reflux symptoms
- Poor weight gain
- Extended continuous feedings
- Gumming or chewing of the nipple
- Thin smile/curled lip
- Creased, cracked, bruised, blistered, or bleeding nipples
- Incomplete breast drainage
- Infected nipples or breasts / Mastitis
- Plugged ducts
- Nipple thrush
- Decay on baby teeth
Diagnosing lip and tongue ties typically involves a visual examination of the mouth and assessing functional issues. Our experienced pediatric dentists are skilled in identifying these conditions and evaluating their impact on your child's oral health and overall well-being.
Accepting New Patients
- Belton, MO
- Mission, KS
- Leavenworth, KS
- Grandview, MO
- Prairie Village, KS
- Roeland Park, KS
- Blue Springs, MO
- Liberty, MO
- Bonner Springs, KS
- Lenexa, KS
- Lee's Summit, MO
- Parkville, MO
- Leawood, KS
- St. Joseph, MO
- Lake Winnebago, MO
- Greenwood, MO
- Pleasant Hill, MO
Treatment Options
To treat lip and tongue tie complication, a frenectomy procedure is used. This treatment is quick, virtually painless and has a fast recovery. One of our dentists uses a soft laser to neatly sever the tissue and free movement to the lip or tongue.
Babies can return to nursing afterward with better results than before. Sweet Tooth can safely perform your child's frenectomy in Kansas City at any of our locations across the metro.
Our highly rated dental experience puts personalized care at the forefront for your child.
Why Early Evaluation Matters
When a lip or tongue tie significantly affects function, early treatment can:
- Improve feeding and nutrition
- Support proper oral development
- Help with speech as your child grows
- Reduce frustration for both child and parent
Our team only recommends treatment when it is truly beneficial. Our doctors will guide you through every step and answer all your questions so you feel confident moving forward.
Lip & Tongue Tie FAQs
Do all lip or tongue ties need to be treated?
No. Many ties do not cause problems and don’t require treatment. We only recommend intervention if the tie is affecting feeding, speech, or development.
Is the procedure painful for my child?
The procedure is very quick and designed to be as gentle as possible. Most children tolerate it well, and we focus on comfort throughout the process.
Will my child feel better right away?
Some improvements—especially with feeding—can be noticed quickly, while others may take time as your child adjusts and develops new movement patterns.
Is there any aftercare required?
Yes, we’ll provide simple instructions to support healing and help maintain the improved range of motion.
Can tongue ties affect speech?
In some cases, yes. Restricted tongue movement can impact certain sounds, but not all children with tongue ties have speech issues.
Ready for the Sweet Tooth Experience?
If you have concerns about a possible lip or tongue tie, we’re here to help. Contact our team today!
Why Parents Trust Sweet Tooth
Personalized Attention
Experience personalized attention for you and your child from our doctors with each visit.
An Open-Door Policy
We welcome parents in treatment areas to help your child feel comfortable.
Our Super Sweet Team
Our friendly team keeps visits smooth and always makes time to answer your questions.
We Speak English & Spanish
Se habla Español! We can communicate with our patients in both English and Spanish.
