Breastfeeding your child is one of the best ways to ensure that they grow up healthy and strong. But sometimes, nursing doesn’t come as easily as you’d hoped, and it can be extremely frustrating for both the parent and child. Well-meaning friends and practitioners may try to help by offering advice, however in some cases that can actually make matters worse. If you’re struggling to nurse comfortably, don’t give up. Here’s one big myth you may have heard, and what you can do to overcome it.
“Breastfeeding is Supposed to Hurt”
If you’ve been told this, you’ve been misinformed. While it may take a few days to get used to, breastfeeding should not be painful for the parent or the child. If you are suffering from any discomfort such as cracked or bleeding nipples, painful latch, mastitis, blocked milk ducts, or low milk supply, this could be the sign of a tongue tie (ankyloglossia) in your child.
What is Tongue Tie?
Tongue tie is a problem affecting about 11 percent of all babies. It occurs when the part of the tongue known as the lingual frenulum (the tissue that attaches your tongue to the bottom of your mouth) is too short, thick, or tight. When this occurs, it can be difficult for your baby to move their tongue and get a proper latch during breastfeeding. This in turn causes both feeding struggles for the baby as well as pain and nursing challenges for the mother.
Treating Tongue Tie
Thankfully, treating tongue tie is possible. Through a procedure called a laser frenectomy, your dentist can essentially vaporize the tie. Because it uses a laser, there is no need to cut any tissue, making it quick and with very minimal pain or bleeding. In fact, your child may only need local anesthesia or none at all. Furthermore, it rarely requires sutures or stitches, and any discomfort usually subsides within a few hours.
Remember, breastfeeding is a wonderful gift to give your child, but it should not be painful or stressful for either of you. If you notice your baby is struggling to latch properly, it could be due to a tongue tie. Speak to your pediatric dentist today about tongue ties and help bring back the joy to nursing for both you and your child.
About Our Practice
The Dentists at Orenco for Kids treats kids of all ages. If your baby is having difficulty latching or is displaying any other signs of tongue tie, we’re here to help. To learn more about the benefits of frenectomy, please visit our website today or call us at 503-640-6565.