Oral restrictions like lip and tongue ties can impact more than speech—they can affect breathing, feeding, sleep quality, and overall oral health. At Paige Prather Smiles, we provide gentle, effective Lip and Tongue Tie Release in Franklin to help patients of all ages improve their function, comfort, and quality of life.
Our team, led by Dr. Paige Prather, specializes in airway-focused, biological dentistry that addresses the root causes of oral health issues. We use advanced diagnostic tools and treatment methods to ensure safe, precise, and comfortable care for children and adults.
What Is a Lip or Tongue Tie?
A lip tie occurs when the tissue (frenulum) connecting the upper lip to the gums is too tight or short, limiting movement. A tongue tie, or ankyloglossia, happens when the frenulum under the tongue restricts its motion. Both conditions can cause:
- Difficulty breastfeeding or bottle feeding in infants
- Speech delays or articulation issues in children
- Trouble eating certain foods
- Mouth breathing or poor sleep quality
- Dental development problems
Our airway dentistry approach focuses on identifying how these restrictions impact your overall health and function.
Signs You or Your Child May Have a Lip or Tongue Tie
The symptoms vary by age:
- Infants: Poor latch, prolonged feeding, colic, slow weight gain
- Children: Speech delays, picky eating, trouble chewing
- Adults: Jaw tension, speech difficulties, sleep-disordered breathing
If you notice any of these signs, a consultation with Dr. Prather can provide clarity and a treatment plan.
Benefits of Lip and Tongue Tie Release in Franklin
Choosing a release procedure can bring significant improvements:
- Better Feeding in Infants – Improves latch and reduces feeding-related discomfort for both baby and parent.
- Enhanced Speech Development – Allows greater tongue mobility for clearer articulation.
- Improved Sleep Quality – Corrects airway restrictions that can disrupt rest.
- Oral Health Benefits – Reduces the risk of dental misalignment and gum recession caused by restricted movement.
The Paige Prather Smiles Approach
Paige Prather Smiles uses laser technology for lip and tongue tie releases. This method offers several advantages:
- Minimal discomfort during and after the procedure
- Reduced bleeding and faster healing
- Precise tissue removal without damaging surrounding structures
- No need for general anesthesia in most cases
Integrating our biological dentistry principles ensures the procedure supports the patient’s overall health and long-term function.
Lip and Tongue Tie Release in Franklin: Your Questions Answered
Is the procedure painful?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort thanks to laser technology and our gentle approach.
How long is the recovery?
Healing is usually quick, with most patients resuming normal activities within a day or two.
Will my baby feed better immediately?
Many infants show instant improvement, while others may need time and support from a lactation consultant.
Preparing for a Lip or Tongue Tie Release
Before your appointment:
- If your child is the patient, ensure they are well-rested and fed beforehand (unless feeding is part of the evaluation).
- Bring any relevant medical or dental records.
The Importance of Early Intervention
Addressing ties early—especially in infants—can prevent problems that affect feeding, speech, airway development, and overall health. A release can greatly improve the quality of life even in older children and adults.
We proudly serve Franklin and surrounding communities with compassionate, patient-focused dental care that supports total body health. If you have been looking for a dentist to provide lip and tongue tie release in Franklin, you have come to the right place. At Paige Prather Smiles, we proudly offer caring and holistic care for every patient who enters our doors.
If you or a loved one may need lip or tongue tie-release, please contact us today to schedule a consultation. Let’s work together to create a healthier, more functional smile for you or your child!
