What Is a Lip Tie in Children? Signs Every Parent Should Know

As a parent, it's natural to be concerned when your baby has trouble feeding, cries excessively, or struggles with oral development. One often overlooked cause of these issues is a lip tie in children—a condition that affects the tissue connecting the upper lip to the gums. Though it might seem minor, a lip tie can have a big impact on feeding, speech, and dental health if left untreated.

This guide explains what a lip tie is, signs to watch for, and when to consult a professional.

What Is a Lip Tie?

A lip tie occurs when the labial frenulum (the thin piece of tissue connecting the upper lip to the gums) is too tight or thick, restricting the lip’s normal movement. This can make it difficult for a child to latch properly during breastfeeding or bottle-feeding.

Lip ties are often grouped with tongue ties, as both are types of oral restrictions that affect normal mouth function.

How Common Is a Lip Tie in Children?

Lip ties are fairly common, though they are often underdiagnosed. Many babies born with a lip tie also have a tongue tie. A healthcare provider may notice it during a routine newborn checkup, especially if feeding difficulties arise early on.

What Causes a Lip Tie?

Lip ties are congenital, meaning children are born with them. The exact cause isn’t known, but there may be a genetic component. If a parent has a history of oral restrictions, their child is more likely to have one too.

Signs of a Lip Tie in Infants

Recognizing a lip tie early can help prevent complications. Here are some common signs in babies:

• Trouble latching during breastfeeding

• Poor weight gain

• Gassiness or reflux-like symptoms

• Clicking sounds while feeding

• Long, tiring feeding sessions

• Excessive fussiness

If you're struggling with breastfeeding and suspect your child may have an oral issue, it's worth evaluating for a lip tie.

Signs of a Lip Tie in Toddlers and Older Children

Some children are not diagnosed until they begin to speak or eat solid foods. In toddlers and older kids, symptoms may include:

• Speech delays or unclear speech

• Difficulty with certain sounds like “m,” “b,” or “p”

• Trouble moving the upper lip

• Gaps between the front teeth

• Tooth decay near the gum line

• Difficulty eating or chewing

Each child presents differently, so if you notice one or more of these signs, further evaluation may be necessary.

How a Lip Tie Affects Breastfeeding

One of the most immediate concerns with a lip tie is its effect on breastfeeding. A restricted upper lip can prevent a baby from achieving a deep latch, leading to:

• Nipple pain or damage for the mother

• Frequent feedings due to poor milk transfer

• Low milk supply over time

• Frustration and emotional stress for both mother and baby

Lactation consultants are often the first to notice a lip tie and may refer you to a specialist for further evaluation.

Diagnosis: Who to Consult

If you suspect a lip tie, consult with professionals experienced in oral restrictions. This may include:

• Pediatricians

• Pediatric dentists

• ENT specialists

• Lactation consultants

They will perform a visual and physical examination of the mouth and evaluate feeding or speech behaviors. At a tongue tie center in Tampa, like ours, providers use specialized tools and techniques to accurately diagnose the severity and type of oral tie.

Treatment Options for Lip Tie

Treatment depends on how severe the lip tie is and how much it's affecting your child. Options include:

1. Monitoring

If the lip tie is mild and not causing any functional issues, your provider may simply monitor it over time.

2. Frenectomy

For more significant ties, a frenectomy may be recommended. This is a quick procedure that involves releasing the tissue using a laser or sterile scissors.

Laser frenectomy is often preferred because it minimizes bleeding, reduces healing time, and causes less discomfort.

Post-Treatment Care

After a lip tie release, your provider may suggest exercises to prevent the tissue from reattaching and to help improve mobility. These stretches are usually simple and take only a few seconds to perform multiple times a day.

Your child may also need follow-up support such as:

• Feeding therapy

• Speech therapy

• Pediatric dental care

Working with a multidisciplinary team ensures the best long-term outcomes.

Lip Tie vs. Tongue Tie: What’s the Difference?

While both conditions involve tight oral tissue, they affect different parts of the mouth:

• Lip tie: Involves the upper lip and gums

• Tongue tie: Affects the tongue's range of motion

In many cases, a child may have both, and treatment often addresses them together for optimal results.

When Should You Seek Help?

Parents should not wait if they notice consistent issues with feeding, speech, or oral hygiene. Early evaluation is key to preventing long-term problems like:

• Difficulty eating solid foods

• Speech delays

• Orthodontic concerns

If you're unsure, it’s better to have your child assessed by a professional rather than wait and risk complications.

Conclusion: Expert Help at Tampa Tongue-Tie Center

If you're noticing signs of a lip tie for children, don't wait to seek support. At Tampa Tongue-Tie Center, we specialize in diagnosing and treating oral restrictions in infants, children, and adolescents. Our experienced team uses advanced laser technology to perform gentle, effective frenectomies in a child-friendly environment.

We understand how stressful feeding and speech issues can be—and we're here to help your child thrive.

📍 Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward better oral health and comfort for your little one.