Could a Lip or Tongue Tie Be Affecting Your Child?

Dr. Zak Taylor

Tongue/Lip Tie Release Expert

As parents, we know how stressful it can be when your baby struggles with feeding, isn’t gaining weight as expected, or seems uncomfortable during nursing or bottle feeding. While these challenges can have many causes, one commonly overlooked issue is a lip or tongue tie.

At Elevation Dentistry, Dr. Taylor is passionate about helping infants, children, and families overcome the challenges that lip and tongue ties can create. After completing advanced training in lip and tongue tie releases, Dr. Taylor uses our Solea® CO₂ laser to perform precise, gentle procedures that often result in noticeable improvements within minutes. One of the most rewarding parts of his work is seeing the immediate difference these releases can make for both babies and their parents.

What Is a Lip or Tongue Tie?

A tongue tie occurs when the band of tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth is too short, thick, or tight. This can limit the tongue’s range of motion.

A lip tie occurs when the tissue connecting the upper lip to the gums is too restrictive, making it difficult for the lip to flange or move properly during feeding.

Although these conditions are present at birth, they don’t always cause problems. However, when they do interfere with feeding, speech, or oral development, treatment may be recommended.

How Do I Know If My Baby Has a Lip or Tongue Tie?

Every baby is different, but some common signs include:

For Baby:

• Difficulty latching while breastfeeding or bottle feeding

• Clicking noises while feeding

• Falling asleep quickly during feeds

• Taking a long time to eat

• Poor weight gain

• Frequent gas, reflux, or excessive fussiness

• Milk leaking from the sides of the mouth

• Difficulty keeping a pacifier in

For Mom (Breastfeeding):

• Painful nursing

• Cracked or damaged nipples

• Frequent plugged ducts or mastitis

• Feeling like baby is never fully satisfied after feeding

As children grow, untreated tongue ties may also contribute to:

• Speech concerns

• Difficulty chewing certain foods

• Mouth breathing

• Snoring or restless sleep

• Challenges with oral hygiene due to limited tongue movement

If you notice any of these signs, it’s worth having your child evaluated by a provider trained in diagnosing oral restrictions.

Why Early Intervention Matters

The earlier a lip or tongue tie is identified, the sooner families can receive answers and support.

Early treatment may help:

• Improve feeding efficiency

• Reduce discomfort during nursing

• Support healthy weight gain

• Encourage proper oral and facial development

• Prevent future speech or oral function concerns

Not every lip or tongue tie requires treatment, which is why a comprehensive evaluation is so important. Our goal is always to recommend the option that’s best for your child and family.

What Does an Appointment Look Like?

We understand that bringing your baby in for an evaluation can feel overwhelming, but we’re here to make the experience as comfortable as possible.

During your visit, Dr. Taylor and one of his Dental Assistants will:

• Review your baby’s feeding history and symptoms.

• Perform a thorough examination of the mouth and oral function.

• Assess the movement of the tongue and upper lip.

• Answer all of your questions and discuss whether a release is appropriate.

If treatment is recommended and you’re ready to move forward, many families are able to have the procedure completed during the same visit.

Using our Solea® CO₂ laser, Dr. Taylor performs the release with exceptional precision. The laser minimizes bleeding, eliminates the need for stitches, and is designed to provide a gentle, efficient treatment experience.

After the procedure, we’ll review stretching exercises, aftercare instructions, and any recommended follow-up care. We also encourage continued support from your lactation consultant, pediatrician, speech therapist, or other healthcare providers when appropriate to help your child achieve the best possible outcome.

Why Families Choose Dr. Taylor

Dr. Taylor has completed specialized training in diagnosing and treating lip and tongue ties and is highly trained in performing laser releases using our Solea® CO₂ laser. He is passionate about helping families find solutions to feeding and oral function challenges and truly enjoys seeing the positive changes that often occur so quickly after treatment.

Many parents tell us they’re amazed by the difference they notice—sometimes within minutes of the release. Whether it’s a deeper latch, a more comfortable feeding experience, or simply seeing their baby more content, those moments are what make this work so meaningful.

We’re Here to Help

If you’ve been wondering whether a lip or tongue tie could be affecting your baby’s feeding, comfort, or development, we’d be honored to help. An evaluation is the first step toward understanding what’s going on and determining whether treatment is right for your child.

If you have questions or would like to schedule a lip or tongue tie evaluation with Dr. Taylor, contact our office today. Together, we can help your child get off to the healthiest start possible.