### What is a Lip Tie? A lip tie is a condition where the upper lip is attached to the gums in a way that restricts movement. This can make breastfeeding difficult for babies and may lead to other issues as they grow. ### Signs of a Lip Tie - Difficulty breastfeeding - Painful breastfeeding for the mother - Poor weight gain in the baby - Gap between the front teeth - Tooth decay due to trapped food - Difficulty eating solid foods as the child grows ### Diagnosis A medical professional will examine your baby's upper lip and may observe a feeding session to look for signs of a lip tie. There are four levels of severity, with level four being the most severe. ### Treatment The most common treatment for a lip tie is a procedure called a frenectomy. This is a minor surgical procedure performed by a dentist. The dentist will apply a numbing solution to the baby's gums and use a small laser to cut the piece of skin connecting the lip to the gums. The procedure takes only a few minutes. ### Aftercare After the procedure, you will need to perform stretches on your baby's upper lip multiple times a day to prevent the skin from growing back together. This involves gently pulling up on the lip and rubbing the area with a clean finger. ### Benefits Many babies show immediate improvement in breastfeeding after the procedure. However, it may take some time for older babies to adjust to a deeper latch. ### Conclusion If you suspect your baby has a lip tie, consult a medical professional for an evaluation and discuss the best treatment options.