Lip and Tongue Tie Release Care in Campbell CA – Expert Infant Recovery Tips

After a lip and tongue tie release procedure in Campbell CA, proper aftercare is essential to ensure your baby’s comfort and optimal healing. At Campbell Pediatric Dentistry, we prioritize your baby’s well-being and provide comprehensive guidance to help you through the recovery process.

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Lip and Tongue Tie Release Care in Campbell CA for Infants

Most babies tolerate a frenectomy well and find comfort in skin-to-skin contact and regular feedings. While post-procedure discomfort is common within the first 48-72 hours, babies typically do not require pain relievers. However, if your baby is exceptionally fussy and traditional soothing methods aren’t working, pain management may be appropriate.

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Pain Relief Options

• Acetaminophen (Tylenol): Dosage is based on weight and should be given only every 4-6 hours:

• 6-11 lbs: 1.25 mL
• 12-17 lbs: 2.5 mL
• 18-23 lbs: 3.75 mL
• 24-35 lbs: 5 mL

*** Avoid Tylenol if your baby has any diagnosed liver conditions.

• Ibuprofen (Motrin): Should not be given to babies under six months of age.
• Arnica (Holistic Alternative): A natural remedy that can help with discomfort. Follow the packaging instructions.

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Managing Bleeding and Healing

Some minor bleeding within the first 24-48 hours after the procedure is normal. To support healing:

• Avoid teething toys, objects in the mouth, and hard or crunchy foods for at least 72 hours.
• Keep your baby’s hands and fingers away from their mouth to prevent irritation.
• If bleeding persists, contact our office immediately.

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Preventing Reattachment: Stretches & Exercises

The mouth heals quickly, which can sometimes lead to partial reattachment of the released tissue. To minimize this, gentle stretching exercises must be performed regularly.

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Stretching Guidelines

• Perform stretches every 6 hours for two weeks following the procedure.
• If your baby sleeps longer than 6 hours, perform the stretches upon waking.
• Lip Lift: Gently lift the lip high enough to see the diamond-shaped healing area. This should briefly occlude both nostrils.
• Tongue Lift: Apply gentle pressure on the floor of the mouth and lift the tongue until the wound site is visible.
• The diamond-shaped wound should appear longer than it is wide when stretching.

Encouraging Oral Strength Development

To help your baby develop strong oral muscles, engage in gentle exercises twice daily, starting 48 hours after the procedure:

• Tongue Elevation: Stroke the hard palate (roof of the mouth) to encourage upward tongue movement.
• Side-to-Side Movement: Stroke along the gum lines on both sides to encourage lateral tongue movement.
• Extension (Sticking the Tongue Out): Encourage this by having your baby suck on a pacifier, finger, or bottle nipple while gently pulling it away.

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Additional Support for Healing

Some babies benefit from additional therapies to enhance oral function. Based on your baby’s needs, Drs. Katie and Stephanie may recommend additional care from:

• Lactation Consultants (IBCLC)
• Occupational Therapists
• Myofunctional Therapists
• Speech Pathologists
• Craniosacral Therapists
• Chiropractors

If you have concerns or need guidance on your baby’s lip and tongue tie release care in Campbell CA, contact Campbell Pediatric Dentistry today. We are here to support you and your baby through every step of the healing process.