A tongue tie and/or lip tie can significantly increase the risks of functional issues at any age.These issues can impact various aspects of life, including feeding, speech, jaw development,breathing, and even posture. At Sovereign Dental, we address these concerns using advanced technology and comprehensive protocols tailored to different age groups.
At Sovereign Dental, we use the Waterlase laser, a technology that provides a precise and gentle release of restrictive tissues such as tongue ties and lip ties. This advanced tool combines a beam of light with jets of cool water, ensuring a comfortable and reassuring experience for our patients. By targeting the water molecules within the cells, the laser causes the cells to burst, resulting in the tissue releasing on its own. Patients often describe the sensation as similar to pins and needles across the skin. Post-procedure, the lip and tongue areas can remain numb for 2-3 hours, offering a much gentler, cleaner, and more comfortable experience compared to traditional methods.
The protocols for oral tie release differ based on the age of the patient. For infants and toddlers, the approach focuses on ensuring immediate improvements in feeding and preventing future developmental issues. In older children and adults, the procedure often aims to enhance speech, alleviate jaw discomfort, and improve overall oral function. Detailed information about these protocols can be found in the FAQs section provided by our center.
Safety is paramount when performing any medical or dental procedure. At Sovereign Dental,our dentists collaborate closely with other health practitioners to ensure a thorough evaluation and treatment process. This multidisciplinary approach helps address not only the immediate issue of the oral tie but also any related functional problems that may arise. Additionally, we consider the well-being of the entire family, especially parents, in managing tongue ties and lip ties, recognizing the broader impact these conditions can have.
In infants, a tongue tie can lead to breastfeeding difficulties, such as poor latch, inadequate milk transfer, and maternal nipple pain. Addressing a tongue tie early can significantly improve breastfeeding outcomes and ensure adequate nutrition and growth for the infant. In toddlers and older children, untreated tongue ties can affect speech development, leading to articulation issues and challenges in pronunciation. The early release of these ties can support more explicit speech and better communication skills.
For adults, a tongue tie can contribute to chronic jaw tension, headaches, and even sleep apnea due to restricted tongue movement. Releasing the tie can alleviate these symptoms and improve overall quality of life. Proper tongue function is also essential for maintaining good oral posture, positively impacting breathing and overall health.
In summary, addressing tongue ties and lip ties at Sovereign Dental involves a comprehensive approach. We use the advanced Waterlase laser technology for a precise and comfortable procedure. Our tailored protocols for different age groups ensure that each patient receives appropriate care, with a strong emphasis on safety and multidisciplinary support. This comprehensive approach, designed to manage the immediate and long-term functional issues associated with oral ties, provides our patients with confidence and security in the care they receive, benefiting both the patient and their family.