Can a Lip- or Tongue-Tie Make Solid Foods Harder to Eat for Kids?

As you watch your child grow up, you may be excited for all the new things they’ll experience. One that may be coming up is the switch over to solid foods. You may be ready for them to experience more of the culinary world and learn more about the person you’re raising! However, if they have a lip- or tongue-tie, then this may be a hard transition to make. Here’s how this condition may affect how they eat solid foods.

What Is a Lip- and Tongue-Tie?

A lip- and tongue-tie is when the soft connective tissue, or frenulum, that connects the lips to the gums or tongue to the floor of the mouth is too tight, thick, or short. This can restrict proper movement, which might’ve caused some issues during infancy, such as trouble latching while feeding. Even as they get older, problems may still happen with speech and nutrition.

How Does This Condition Affect My Child’s Diet?

Oftentimes, children switch over to solid foods when they are six months old or so. The exact time may be different for your loved one, but a tied tongue can make this a more difficult transition. Your child may not be able to protrude this muscle, lift it, or move it sideways as easily as they are supposed to. A tied lip can also cause issues, as they may not be able to sip a drink or wrap their lips around food as they take a bite.

In general, reduced mobility of these oral structures is frequently met with coughing, choking, vomiting, and sometimes gagging. Many kids with this condition also end up being slow picky eaters or fast untidy ones who don’t chew thoroughly or prefer only soft foods.  

How Are Lip- and Tongue-Ties Treated?

To help your child have an easier time eating solid foods, you can get their lip- or tongue-tie treated with a frenectomy. It’s a fairly simple process, where their dentist will gently remove the band of tissue that’s causing trouble. They use a dental laser, which is precise and comfortable.

Since this state-of-the-art technology emits almost no sound, vibration, or heat, your loved may not be nervous while they sit in the chair. Not only that, but they may also have a quicker recovery!

In the end, lip- and tongue-ties may not seem too serious, but it can have a lasting impact on your child, from how they eat, speak, and smile. Consider getting it treated to help them avoid any issues down the line.

About the Author

Dr. N. Garcia-DeMartino earned her dental degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University. She has since undergone special training that allowed her to become an expert at treating lip- and tongue-ties with soft tissue and hard tissue dental lasers. In just a matter of minutes, she uses her over 35 years of experience to help her patients of all ages get relief from their frenulum that’s causing issues. If you believe your loved one can benefit from this treatment, schedule an appointment or call (908) 840-8399.