What Are Oral Ties?

Oral ties occur when there is an unusually tight or short band of tissue (frenulum) restricting the movement of the tongue, lips, or cheeks. These restrictions can affect an infant’s ability to latch during breastfeeding, cause feeding difficulties, and potentially lead to speech or oral development issues as the child grows. The three most common types of oral ties include:

1. Tongue Tie (Ankyloglossia):

• Occurs when the frenulum beneath the tongue is too tight or short, limiting tongue movement.

• Signs include difficulty latching, poor weight gain, or inability to stick the tongue out past the lower lip.

• Tongue ties can also contribute to speech delays or difficulties with articulation as the child grows.

2. Lip Tie:

• Happens when the tissue connecting the upper or lower lip to the gums is tight or restrictive.

• Can make it difficult for babies to latch deeply during breastfeeding, leading to pain for the mother and ineffective feeding.

• In older children, lip ties can impact oral hygiene by creating a gap where food and bacteria may collect.

3. Buccal Ties:

• Involve tightness or restriction in the tissues connecting the cheeks to the gums.

• Can interfere with feeding mechanics and contribute to tension in the jaw or facial muscles.

How Chiropractic Care Supports Children with Oral Ties

At Solstice Chiropractic, we focus on the connection between the nervous system and the body’s muscles, tissues, and overall function. Oral ties are often associated with tension in the neck, jaw, and cranial structures, which can further complicate feeding and oral development. Our gentle chiropractic care helps release this tension, improve alignment, and optimize nervous system communication, providing much-needed support for children with oral ties.

Key Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Oral Ties:

1. Improved Jaw and Tongue Function: Gentle adjustments help release tension in the jaw and neck, supporting better mobility and feeding mechanics.

2. Enhanced Latch for Breastfeeding: By reducing tension, chiropractic care can support deeper, more effective latching for infants.

3. Support for Post-Procedure Recovery: If a frenectomy (oral tie release procedure) is performed, chiropractic care can aid recovery by promoting optimal alignment and muscle function.

4. Reduced Stress and Tension: Relieving muscle tension can help infants and children feel calmer and more comfortable.

5. Holistic Nervous System Support: Chiropractic care optimizes nervous system function, which can improve overall coordination and oral motor skills.

Signs Your Baby May Have an Oral Tie

• Difficulty latching or staying latched during breastfeeding.

• Clicking sounds while nursing.

• Poor weight gain or frequent feeding sessions with little satisfaction.

• Gassy or colicky behavior due to swallowing air during feeds.

• Painful breastfeeding for the mother, including cracked or bleeding nipples.

• In older children, speech delays or difficulties with certain sounds.

Our Approach to Supporting Oral Ties at Solstice Chiropractic

At Solstice Chiropractic, we tailor our care to meet the specific needs of each child. Whether your baby has been diagnosed with an oral tie or is showing signs of feeding challenges, our approach focuses on enhancing comfort and function for both mother and child.

Our Process:

1. Comprehensive Assessment: We begin with a thorough evaluation of your child’s health history, oral function, and feeding patterns to identify areas of tension or restriction.

2. Customized Care Plans: Based on our assessment, we develop a personalized care plan to address your child’s specific needs.

3. Gentle Pediatric Adjustments: Our techniques are tailored for infants and children, using minimal pressure to ensure safety and comfort.

4. Parental Guidance and Support: We provide education on feeding positions, stretches, and exercises to complement chiropractic care and support your child’s progress.

Why Families Trust Solstice Chiropractic for Oral Tie Support

• Expertise in Pediatric Chiropractic: Our team is trained in gentle techniques designed specifically for infants and children.

• Holistic, Family-Centered Approach: We focus on the overall well-being of your child, addressing root causes and promoting natural development.

• Collaboration with Healthcare Providers: We work closely with lactation consultants, pediatricians, and oral specialists to provide comprehensive care.

• Welcoming, Nurturing Environment: Our practice is designed to make families feel comfortable and supported every step of the way.