Understanding Upper Lip and Tongue Ties in Newborns

Welcoming a newborn is a special time for every family. Parents want their little ones to be happy and healthy. But sometimes, babies may have trouble breastfeeding or making certain mouth movements. This can be due to something called a newborn tongue tie & upper lip tie in Billings, MT. If you live in Billings, Montana, and are looking for help with this, you’re in the right place!

What Is an Upper Lip Tie in Billings, MT?

An upper lip tie happens when a baby’s upper lip is too tightly attached to the gums. This can make it hard for the baby to move their lip freely. When a baby has an upper lip tie in Billings, MT, they may struggle with breastfeeding.

Signs of an Upper Lip Tie:

• Trouble latching onto the breast
• Clicking sounds while feeding
• Milk leaking from the mouth
• Colic or fussiness after feeding
• Slow weight gain

If you notice these signs, a doctor or specialist in Billings, MT, can check if your baby has an upper lip tie.

What Is a Tongue Tie?

A newborn tongue tie happens when the tissue under the baby’s tongue is too tight or short. This can make it hard for the baby to move their tongue properly. Families looking for help with a newborn tongue tie in Billings, Montana, should talk to a doctor or lactation consultant.

Signs of a Tongue Tie:

• Difficulty sticking out the tongue
• Trouble latching onto the breast or bottle
• Clicking sounds during feeding
• Gagging or choking while feeding
• Speech issues as the child grows

If you live in Billings, Montana, and suspect your baby has a tongue tie, there are treatment options available.

How Do These Issues Affect Feeding?

Breastfeeding is important for a baby’s growth, but an upper lip tie or newborn tongue tie can make it difficult. These conditions can lead to:

• Painful nursing: The baby may not latch properly, causing pain for the mother.
• Low milk supply: If a baby cannot suck properly, the mother’s milk supply may decrease.
• Poor weight gain: If the baby cannot feed well, they may not get enough nutrients.

If you live in Billings, MT, and are struggling with breastfeeding due to an upper lip or tongue tie, there are professionals who can help.

How Are Upper Lip Tie and Tongue Tie Treated?

The good news is that both conditions can be treated! Doctors in Billings, Montana, can perform a simple procedure called a frenectomy. This involves using a laser or scissors to gently release the tight tissue.

Benefits of a Frenectomy:

• Improved breastfeeding: Babies can latch better and feed comfortably.
• Less pain for mom: Mothers experience less discomfort while nursing.
• Better speech development: As the child grows, they will have better tongue movement for speaking.

If you are in Billings, MT, and your baby has an upper lip tie or newborn tongue tie, a specialist can discuss whether a frenectomy is right for you.

Finding Help in Billings, Montana

If you think your baby has an upper lip tie in Billings, MT, or a newborn tongue tie in Billings, Montana, it’s important to seek help. Here’s what you can do:

1. Talk to a Lactation Consultant – They can check if the tie is affecting feeding.
2. Visit a Pediatric Dentist or Doctor – A specialist can diagnose and treat the condition.
3. Join Support Groups – Other parents in Billings, MT, can share their experiences and tips.

Getting the right help early can make a big difference for your baby’s health and happiness.

Final Thoughts

Being a parent comes with challenges, but you are not alone. If your baby is struggling with feeding, an upper lip tie or newborn tongue tie could be the reason. Families in Billings, Montana, have access to great resources and professionals who can help.