Tongue and Lip Tie Treatment in Balham

Expert Assessment for Tongue and Lip Tie

At London Dental Specialists, our tongue and lip tie treatment begins with a comprehensive consultation and assessment. This crucial first step ensures we provide the most appropriate care for your child's unique needs.

What to Expect During Your Consultation:

• Thorough Examination: Our paediatric dentist will carefully assess your child's oral anatomy, focusing on the tongue and lip ties.


• Functional Evaluation: We observe how the tongue and lip move during various activities, such as feeding or speaking.


• Medical History Review: We'll discuss any symptoms or concerns you've noticed, as well as your child's overall health.


• Feeding Assessment: For infants, we may observe a feeding session to evaluate any difficulties.

Our Assessment Process:

1. Visual Inspection: We examine the frenulum (the tissue connecting the tongue or lip) for signs of restriction.


2. Manual Examination: Gentle palpation helps determine the extent of the tie.


3. Range of Motion Testing: We assess how far the tongue can move and whether it can perform necessary functions.


4. Symptom Evaluation: We consider any feeding issues, speech concerns, or other symptoms related to the tie.

Post-Assessment Discussion:

Following the assessment, we will:

• Explain our findings in detail


• Discuss whether treatment is necessary


• Outline potential treatment options, including frenectomy if appropriate


• Address any questions or concerns you may have

Our goal is to provide you with all the information needed to make an informed decision about your child's care. We understand that every case is unique, and we tailor our approach to each individual patient.

If treatment is recommended, we'll guide you through the next steps, ensuring you feel comfortable and confident in the care plan for your child.

Personalised Treatment Plan for Tongue and Lip Tie

Following your initial consultation, our specialists at London Dental Specialists will develop a customised treatment plan tailored to your child's specific needs. This comprehensive plan addresses the unique aspects of your child's tongue or lip tie.

Key Components of Your Treatment Plan:

• Detailed Diagnosis: A clear explanation of the type and severity of the tie


• Treatment Recommendations: Options may include frenectomy or other interventions


• Procedure Details: Step-by-step explanation of the chosen treatment


• Recovery Guidelines: Post-treatment care instructions


• Follow-up Schedule: Planned check-ups to monitor progress

Treatment Options We May Recommend:

Personalised Considerations:

Our treatment plan takes into account:

• Age of the patient: Different approaches for newborns, infants, and older children


• Severity of the tie: Tailoring the intervention to the degree of restriction


• Feeding method: Specific considerations for breastfed or bottle-fed babies


• Associated symptoms: Addressing any speech, feeding, or oral health concerns

Pre-Treatment Preparation:

We'll provide detailed instructions on:

1. Any necessary pre-procedure fasting (if applicable)


2. What to bring on the day of treatment


3. How to prepare your child emotionally for the procedure


4. Any pre-treatment exercises or techniques to practice

Our goal is to ensure you feel fully informed and prepared for your child's tongue or lip tie treatment. We encourage you to ask questions and voice any concerns about the proposed plan. Your comfort and understanding are paramount to us at London Dental Specialists.

Tongue and Lip Tie Treatment Procedures

At London Dental Specialists, we offer state-of-the-art tongue and lip tie treatment procedures to address feeding difficulties and other related issues in infants and children. Our experienced paediatric dentists use advanced techniques to ensure optimal results with minimal discomfort.

Our Treatment Options:

• Laser Frenectomy: A precise, minimally invasive procedure using laser technology


• Traditional Frenectomy: Surgical release of the frenulum using sterile scissors

Laser Frenectomy Procedure:

1. Preparation: The area is cleaned and a topical anaesthetic may be applied


2. Laser Application: Our specialist uses a diode laser to carefully release the tight frenulum


3. Tissue Vaporisation: The laser precisely removes excess tissue with minimal bleeding


4. Completion: The procedure typically takes less than 5 minutes

Benefits of Laser Frenectomy:

• Minimal discomfort and bleeding


• Faster healing time


• Reduced risk of infection


• No stitches required


• Immediate improvement in tongue or lip mobility

Traditional Frenectomy Procedure:

1. Anaesthesia: Local anaesthetic is administered to ensure comfort


2. Incision: Sterile scissors are used to carefully cut the frenulum


3. Suturing: In some cases, dissolvable stitches may be used


4. Completion: The procedure usually takes about 15-30 minutes

Post-Treatment Care:

Following your child's frenectomy, we provide comprehensive aftercare instructions, including:

• Gentle stretching exercises to prevent reattachment


• Feeding guidance for infants


• Pain management techniques if needed


• Follow-up appointments to monitor healing and progress

Expected Outcomes:

Most patients experience immediate improvement in tongue or lip mobility following the procedure. Benefits may include:

• Enhanced breastfeeding or bottle-feeding efficiency


• Improved speech clarity (for older children)


• Better oral hygiene capabilities


• Reduced risk of future dental and orthodontic issues

At London Dental Specialists, we prioritise your child's comfort and well-being throughout the entire treatment process. Our team is always available to address any concerns and provide support during your child's recovery.

Post Tongue and Lip Tie Treatment Care

Proper aftercare is essential for successful healing following your child's tongue or lip tie procedure at London Dental Specialists. Our comprehensive post-treatment care ensures optimal results and minimises any discomfort during recovery.

Immediate Aftercare (First 24 Hours):

• Feeding: You can feed your baby immediately after the procedure


• Pain management: Mild discomfort is normal and can be managed with paracetamol if recommended by your dentist


• Bleeding: Minor spotting is normal but should subside quickly


• Comfort measures: Gentle cuddles and skin-to-skin contact can help soothe your baby

Stretching Exercises:

To prevent reattachment of the tissue, we recommend specific stretching exercises:

1. Timing: Begin exercises as advised by your specialist (typically 6-12 hours post-procedure)


2. Frequency: Perform 4-6 times daily for approximately 2-3 weeks


3. Technique: We will demonstrate the proper technique during your appointment


4. Duration: Each stretch takes only a few seconds but is crucial for success

What to Expect During Healing:

• White diamond patch: A normal part of healing that forms at the treatment site


• Improved function: Many babies show immediate improvement in feeding


• Adaptation period: Some babies may need time to adjust to their new range of motion

Follow-up Support:

Our care continues beyond the procedure with:

• Scheduled review appointments to monitor healing and progress


• Lactation support for breastfeeding mothers if needed


• Telephone support for any concerns between appointments


• Referrals to speech therapists or other specialists if appropriate

When to Contact Us:

Please get in touch immediately if you notice:

• Excessive bleeding that doesn't stop


• Signs of infection (increased redness, swelling, fever)


• Refusal to feed for more than 4-6 hours


• Significant distress that cannot be soothed

At London Dental Specialists, we're committed to supporting you throughout the entire tongue-tie treatment journey. Our team is always available to answer questions and provide guidance as your child adjusts to their improved oral function. Most children recover quickly and begin experiencing the benefits of the procedure within days.