At GrassRoots Dental Wellness, we understand that welcoming a new life brings profound joy and unique challenges. As a mother of two and a specialist in infant oral health, Dr. Hetrick brings professional expertise and personal understanding to helping families navigate infant tongue-tie.
Understanding Infant Tongue-Tie
Infant tongue-tie, medically known as ankyloglossia, occurs when the lingual frenulum—the connective tissue linking the tongue to the mouth floor—is unusually short, thick, or tight. Through years of specialized practice and advanced training with Dr. Larry Kotlow, we have developed comprehensive expertise in identifying and treating this condition that can significantly impact your infant’s early development.
The Science Behind Tongue-Tie
While the precise cause of infant tongue-tie remains under study, our clinical experience and current research indicate a combination of genetic predisposition and developmental factors. Dr. Hetrick’s advanced training and continuous study of the latest research enables her to provide detailed insights into your child’s situation and develop personalized treatment approaches.
Early Recognition and Intervention
Drawing from extensive experience treating infants, we have refined our ability to identify tongue-tie indicators early:
- Breastfeeding or bottle-feeding challenges that affect both parent and child
- Extended feeding sessions can strain the nurturing relationship
- Concerns about weight gain and development
- Distinctive sounds during nursing that may signal difficulty
- Visual indicators in tongue appearance and movement
- Potential impacts on solid food introduction
Our Gentle Treatment Approach
At GrassRoots Dental Wellness, we combine advanced technology with gentle care in treating tongue-tie. Using state-of-the-art CO2 laser technology, we perform precise frenotomy procedures prioritizing your infant’s comfort and swift recovery. Dr. Hetrick’s specialized training and maternal perspective ensure that each procedure is performed with utmost care and attention to detail.
Understanding Posterior Tongue-Tie
Our comprehensive evaluation process includes assessment for posterior tongue-tie, a less visible but equally significant variant. Dr. Hetrick’s advanced training enables her to identify and treat these deeper restrictions that might go unnoticed, ensuring complete care for your child.
Supporting the Breastfeeding Journey
We understand that tongue-tie can significantly impact the breastfeeding experience. Through years of working with families, we have developed expertise in addressing everyday challenges:
The restricted movement often affects:
- The secure latch needed for adequate feeding
- Comfort for both mother and infant
- Efficient milk transfer and weight gain
- Overall feeding patterns and schedules
- Maternal milk supply maintenance
Our approach combines clinical expertise with practical support, helping families establish comfortable, effective feeding patterns supporting physical development and emotional bonding.
Our Commitment to Your Family
Drawing from professional expertise and personal experience, Dr. Hetrick and our team provide comprehensive support throughout your tongue-tie treatment journey. We understand that each family’s experience is unique, and we tailor our approach to meet your specific needs and concerns.
Contact our office to schedule a thorough evaluation. Together, we’ll develop a treatment plan that supports your child’s development and your family’s well-being.
Dr. Hetrick combines advanced CO2 laser certification, specialized training in infant tongue-tie release, and personal understanding as a mother to provide exceptional care for your child.