Infant Lip and Tongue Tie Aftercare: Your Complete Guide to Healing and Comfort

If your baby just had a lip or tongue tie release in Campbell CA and Los Gatos CA, you’re likely wondering what to expect next—and how to keep them comfortable during the healing process. At Campbell Pediatric Dentistry, we’re committed to guiding you through every step of your baby’s recovery with easy-to-follow care tips and expert support.

Most babies handle a frenectomy (the procedure used to release a lip or tongue tie) incredibly well. With the right aftercare, your little one will be back to feeding and smiling in no time.

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What to Expect After a Lip or Tongue Tie Release

It’s completely normal for babies to experience mild discomfort for the first 48 to 72 hours. Many infants find relief with frequent feeding, skin-to-skin contact, and extra cuddles. Most don’t require pain medication, but if your baby seems especially fussy or hard to soothe, there are safe options available.

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Infant Pain Relief Options

If your baby needs a little extra comfort, here are some pain management choices:

• Infant Acetaminophen (Tylenol®)
  Only give if advised by your pediatrician. Never give Tylenol if your baby has a known liver condition.
  • Dosage depends on your baby’s weight:
    • 6–11 lbs: 1.25 mL
    • 12–17 lbs: 2.5 mL
    • 18–23 lbs: 3.75 mL
    • 24–35 lbs: 5 mL
• Ibuprofen (Motrin®)
  Do not give to babies under 6 months old.
• Arnica (Natural Option)
  This holistic remedy may help reduce discomfort. Always follow the instructions on the packaging and consult your care team before use.

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Managing Minor Bleeding and Supporting Healing

A little bleeding in the first day or two is completely normal. Here’s how to help your baby heal safely:

• Avoid teething toys or anything that goes in the mouth for the first 72 hours
• Keep fingers and hands out of the mouth
• Stick with soft feedings—no crunchy or textured foods if your baby is eating solids

If bleeding continues or worsens, call Campbell Pediatric Dentistry right away

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Preventing Reattachment with Gentle Stretches

The mouth heals fast—sometimes too fast. To avoid the tissue reattaching and undoing the release, you’ll need to perform specific stretches consistently.

How Often to Stretch
Every 6 hours for the first two weeks

If your baby sleeps longer than 6 hours, do the stretch as soon as they wake

Stretching Techniques
Lip Lift: Gently lift the upper lip until you can see the diamond-shaped wound. You should momentarily see both nostrils close off—this is a good sign you’ve lifted far enough.

Tongue Lift: Use light pressure on the floor of the mouth and gently lift the tongue until the full diamond-shaped site is visible.

Pro tip: The wound should look longer than it is wide. That’s how you know the stretch is helping maintain proper separation.

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Encouraging Oral Muscle Development

Beyond healing, you’ll want to help your baby build strong oral function. Start these light exercises 48 hours post-procedure:

• Tongue Elevation: Gently stroke the roof of your baby’s mouth to encourage upward tongue movement.
• Side-to-Side Tongue Movement: Stroke along the upper gums on each side to help with lateral mobility.
• Tongue Extension: Have your baby suck on a pacifier or clean finger while you gently pull it away to encourage the tongue to follow.

These little exercises go a long way toward supporting speech, feeding, and proper muscle coordination.

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Additional Healing Support: When to Consider Therapy

Every baby heals at their own pace. Some may benefit from extra guidance to improve oral function or feeding. Depending on your child’s needs, we may recommend trusted specialists, including:

• IBCLCs (Lactation Consultants)
• Occupational or Myofunctional Therapists
• Speech-Language Pathologists
• Craniosacral or Chiropractic Practitioners

We take a whole-body approach to recovery and will work with you to build a care plan that fits your baby’s unique needs.

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Need Help With Aftercare? We’re Just a Call Away

Caring for your baby after a lip or tongue tie release doesn’t have to be overwhelming. We’re here to support you with step-by-step guidance and expert answers every step of the way.

If you have questions or concerns about healing, stretches, or symptoms—reach out to our team. We’re always here to help your baby thrive.