For many new parents, feeding challenges are a frustrating and inconvenient obstacle during an already overwhelming time. If you notice your baby having trouble latching, nursing for prolonged periods, or consistently seeming fussy, you may be dealing with a tongue or lip tie.
At Sierk Children’s Dentistry, Dr. Jon Sierk helps families uncover the root cause and gently restore calm to these vital early moments with your baby.
What Is a Frenectomy? A Simple Explanation
A pediatric frenectomy is a minor procedure that releases a tight band of tissue (frenulum) under the tongue or upper lip. When these tissues are too short or restrictive, they interfere with natural movement, making feeding and speech development more difficult.
Recognizing the Signs: Is Your Baby Struggling with a Tie?
Tethered oral tissues can make everyday feeding a challenge for infants. While every baby is different, there are several telltale signs that may point to a tongue or lip tie, including:
- Difficulty latching during breastfeeding
- Clicking sounds while nursing or bottle feeding
- Slow weight gain despite frequent feeds
- Excessive gas, fussiness, or colic-like symptoms
- The breastfeeding parent may also notice their own feeding struggles as a result of an untreated tie. These challenges can be just as revealing as the baby’s symptoms, and include:
- Painful, cracked nipples
- Blocked ducts or mastitis
- Fatigue from marathon feeding sessions
The Benefits of Frenectomy: More Than Just Feeding
Releasing the tie improves latch, reduces feeding frustration, and helps babies gain weight and develop more effectively. For parents, it often means less discomfort, shorter nursing sessions, and greater confidence and better bonding during feedings.
Long-Term Health and Developmental Advantages
In addition to feeding, pediatric frenectomy can also facilitate clearer speech, proper swallowing patterns, and healthier oral development as a child grows. By addressing the issue early, families prevent the need for future treatments, from orthodontics to speech therapy.
Support for Your Baby’s First Steps in Feeding
At Sierk Children’s Dentistry, Dr. Jon Sierk and our team provide compassionate, expert care to help babies and parents thrive during crucial developmental times. If feeding has become a frustration for your family in Castle Pines, contact Dr. Sierk and our caring and knowledgeable team today to learn how a pediatric frenectomy can make mealtimes smoother and set the stage for healthy growth!