Resolve Pediatric Tongue
& Lip Tie Challenges

Unlock the potential for a brighter future for your child with tongue tie surgery at Milltown Dental in Milton, ON. Our team can address concerns related to tongue and lip ties by utilizing laser frenectomy, a minimally invasive procedure. Dr. Julie Boudreault, a recognized expert in the field of pediatric frenectomy, prioritizes your child’s comfort and well-being throughout the treatment process.

Call 905-878-8528

About Tongue-Ties

What is Tongue-Tie?

Tongue-tie, also known as “Ankyloglossia,” limits tongue movement due to the fusion or adherence of the tongue to the floor of the mouth. This occurs when the “frenulum,” a piece of skin that runs along the floor of the mouth, is either abnormally short or attached too close to the tip of the tongue. Typically, this skin separates from the tongue before birth. However, in cases of tongue-tie, the frenulum remains attached, affecting daily functions.

Why is Tongue-Tie a Problem For Children?

Here are some challenges a tongue-tie can pose for children:

Tongue-tie can lead to difficulties with breastfeeding, causing frustration and challenges for both mother and baby.
Speech development may be hindered due to restricted tongue movement, impacting communication skills.
Oral hygiene can be compromised, increasing the risk of dental issues in the future.
Social and emotional development can be affected as children may struggle with self-esteem and confidence due to speech impediments.
Tongue ties limit mouth mobility, restricting licking, kissing, and the ability to play wind instruments in the future.

Tongue-Ties Pose Challenges for Breastfeeding

Tongue-tie creates challenges for breastfeeding mothers and newborns. It can lead to difficulties with latching, causing physical discomfort for both mother and baby. This can result in poor weight gain for the baby, nipple issues for the mother, increased risk of infections, and disrupted sleep due to hunger.

Treating Tongue-Ties

How a Tongue-Tie is Diagnosed

Tongue-tie is typically diagnosed by observing the baby’s tongue shape during crying, where a heart-shaped or squared-off appearance may indicate the condition. Dr. Julie can evaluate your baby for tongue-tie, which may manifest as limited tongue movement, difficulty sticking out the tongue, and challenges with side-to-side motion.

What is a laser frenectomy?

Dr. Julie utilizes a soft tissue laser for a safe and efficient procedure to release the tongue’s frenulum. Unlike traditional cutting methods, the laser quickly separates the tissue without cutting it, ensuring a faster and safer process. This approach is comfortable for your baby, as you can hold them during the procedure.

What benefits can follow a tongue‑tie or lip‑tie release?

Parents often see improved breastfeeding (better latch, more weight gain), faster and clearer speech development, easier oral hygiene, and reduced risk for dental issues over time.

Why have tongue tie surgery?

Improved breastfeeding success
Enhanced comfort during breastfeeding
Encourages milk production
Enhances the breastfeeding experience and strengthens mother-baby bonding
Provides psychological relief for parents, leading to better sleep
Promotes baby’s growth and development
Supports the development of healthy sleep patterns in babies
Prevents potential long-term issues such as palatal development, tooth spacing, dental caries, and speech difficulties
Reduces the risk of speech impairments
Facilitates the development of a normal swallowing pattern
Enables the tongue to naturally clean the mouth, reducing the chances of gum disease and decay
Supports essential tongue functions like licking, kissing, and sticking the tongue out
Helps decrease the risk of choking and the development of an overly sensitive gag reflex

What should I expect during recovery after frenectomy?

Recovery is quick and often requires no stitches, with parents comforting their child during and after. The laser seals nerve endings and vessels, reducing bleeding and discomfort. Healing supports improved feeding, speech, and oral function.

Reach out today to see how we can help your child – call 905-878-8528!

Resolve Pediatric Tongue & Lip Tie Challenges