lip tie vs normal pictures
Lip ties, also known as sublingual frenums, are bands of fibrous tissue that extend from the frenulum, the narrow band of tissue between the lips and gums, to the floor of the mouth. When a lip tie is tight, it can restrict the movement of the upper lip, making it difficult for infants to nurse properly and potentially causing weight gain problems. Babies with lip ties are often referred to as having 'tongue-tied' mouths.
On the other hand, normal upper frenums are typically wider at the base and can move easily, allowing the outer lip to flare and purse and making it possible for the infant to properly latch and nurse, and also facilitating normal speech development. While it may appear that the upperlip ties in lip tie vs normal pictures appear thick and restricting, the elasticity of the frenum can vary. In many cases, the fat pad in the middle, often referred to as the frenular pad, can thicken and increase the thickness and restrictiveness of the frenum.
In conclusion, while it may appear that lip ties cause significant restriction and difficulty, the diagnosis of a lip tie and its treatment is a complex process that involves assessing the entire oral cavity. Infants and adults with normal upper frenums typically experience minimal or no restrictions and should be allowed ample time and opportunity to develop normally with the support of a well-fitted palate.
