Lip Tie, Permanent Teeth and Orthodontics

When it comes to oral health, many parents focus on the development of their children’s teeth, often overlooking the significance of soft tissues like the lips and tongue. One condition that can affect these areas is a lip tie. NYC Tongue Tie explores what a lip tie is, how it may impact the development of permanent teeth and its implications for orthodontics.

What is a Lip Tie?

A lip tie occurs when the frenulum—the thin band of tissue that connects the inside of the upper lip to the gum—is too tight or short. This can restrict the movement of the upper lip, potentially leading to difficulties with breastfeeding in infants, speech issues and even challenges with oral hygiene as children grow.

• The 2023 OTO Open Journal from The American Academy of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery Foundation reported that “Although many parents are concerned about lip tie, much of their information on this condition comes from nonmedical sources” like social media.
• According to the Cochran Library, lip ties occur in 4 to 11% of newborns, making them relatively common.
• Lip ties often go undetected because most infant exams don’t include an examination of the upper lip or frenulum, according to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).

Lip Tie and Permanent Teeth

The presence of a lip tie can have several consequences for the development of permanent teeth. It can cause the upper lip to pull downwards excessively, which may lead to gaps between the front teeth or misalignment. Over time, improper lip function may hinder the natural growth of the mouth and jaw, contributing to orthodontic issues.

Moreover, since lip ties can affect how effectively a child can wipe food from their mouth, poor oral hygiene may result in cavities or gum disease, which can impact the health of their emerging permanent teeth.

Orthodontics and Lip Tie

When it comes to orthodontics, recognizing and addressing a lip tie early can be crucial. While some children with a lip tie may not experience significant problems, others may require orthodontic treatment as their teeth develop. This might include braces or other corrective methods to align their teeth properly.

A lip tie release procedure (frenectomy) is often recommended if the tie severely restricts movement or causes significant functional issues. NYC Tongue Tie performs this simple procedure in our office. It greatly improves the functionality of the lips and overall oral health.

Signs of Lip Tie

Parents should be on the lookout for several indicators that a lip tie might be present in their child. These can include:

• Difficulty breastfeeding or latching in infants
• Speech difficulties as they grow older
• A gap between the front teeth or noticeable misalignment
• Difficulty with oral hygiene (e.g., food particles getting trapped)

Understanding the implications of a lip tie is an important part of ensuring a child’s oral health. If you suspect your child may have a lip tie, schedule an exam with NYC Tongue Tie. Early evaluation and intervention can make a significant difference in their dental development and overall well-being.