Lip tie is a common condition that occurs when the tissue that connects the upper lip to the gums is too tight or thick, restricting the movement of the lip.

It is often present at birth and can cause many problems if left untreated. While many cases of lip tie may not require intervention, severe cases can lead to difficulties with breastfeeding, speech, and dental development.

It is essential to address lip ties to prevent potential complications and improve the overall quality of life.

This outline will explore the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and possible complications of lip tying.

Definition of lip tie

Lip tie, also known as upper lip tie or maxillary frenulum, is a condition that occurs when the tissue that connects the upper lip to the gums is too tight or thick, restricting the movement of the lip.

This connective tissue, called the frenulum, can range from a thin, stretchy membrane to a broad, rigid band.

Sometimes, lip tie can cause problems with breastfeeding, speech, and dental development and may require medical intervention.

Lip ties can occur alone or in conjunction with tongue ties, a similar condition in which the tissue that connects the tongue to the bottom of the mouth restricted.

Importance of addressing lip tie

Addressing lip ties is essential because, if left untreated, it can cause various complications that can impact a person’s overall health and quality of life.

A severe lip tie can make it difficult for infants to breastfeed appropriately, leading to poor weight gain and malnourishment.

As children grow, lip tie can cause speech difficulties, dental issues, and social and emotional challenges.

Untreated lip ties can also cause long-term dental problems, such as gaps between teeth, bite misalignment, and gum recession.

In addition, untreated lip ties can lead to issues with self-esteem and social interaction problems, as individuals with severe lip ties may feel self-conscious about their appearance or struggle to communicate effectively.

By addressing lip tie early on, individuals can avoid these potential complications and improve their quality of life.

Treatment for lip tie typically involves a simple surgical procedure called a frenotomy, which can be performed quickly and with minimal discomfort.

Causes of lip tie

Genetic factors

Evidence suggests that genetic factors can play a role in the development of lip tie.

Research has shown that there may be a genetic component to the thickness and elasticity of the frenulum, which can impact its function and lead to lip tie.

Sometimes, lip ties may inherit from a parent with the condition.

It is important to note, however, that not all cases of lip tie are genetic.

Other developmental factors, such as prenatal growth and environmental influences, can also contribute to the development of lip tie.

Further study required to fully understand the genetic and environmental factors contributing to lip tie development.

Developmental factors

In addition to genetic factors, developmental factors can also contribute to the development of lip tie.

During fetal development, the upper lip and gum tissue form separately and then fuse, and if this process disrupted or incomplete, it can lead to lip tie.

Several developmental factors may increase the risk of lip tie, including premature birth, low birth weight, and exposure to certain medications or substances during pregnancy.

In addition, certain medical conditions, such as cleft lip or palate, may increase the risk of lip tie.

It is imperative to note that not all cases of lip tie have a clear developmental cause, and in some cases, the reason may be unknown.

However, understanding the potential developmental factors contributing to lip tie can help healthcare providers identify at-risk individuals and provide appropriate interventions.

Symptoms of lip tie

Difficulty breastfeeding

One of the most common symptoms of lip tie is difficulty breastfeeding.

In infants with lip tie, the tight or thick frenulum can make it difficult for them to latch onto the breast properly and maintain a strong suction.

This can lead to many problems, including poor weight gain, malnourishment, and decreased milk supply for the breastfeeding parent.

Some common signs that an infant may be struggling to breastfeed due to lip tie include:

• Poor latch or difficulty latching
• Inability to maintain suction while breastfeeding
• Clicking or popping sounds while nursing
• Gagging or choking during breastfeeding
• Feeding for long periods without adequate milk transfer

Suppose lip tie is suspected to be the cause of breastfeeding difficulties.

In that case, a healthcare provider may recommend a frenotomy, a simple surgical procedure that involves cutting the frenulum to release tension and improve upper lip mobility.

In some cases, lactation support or feeding techniques may recommend to help improve breastfeeding outcomes.Top of Form

Speech difficulties

Lip tie can also cause speech difficulties in children and adults.

The tight or thick frenulum can limit the movement of the upper lip and tongue, making it difficult to produce certain sounds and pronounce words correctly.

This can lead to speech delays and difficulties with communication.

Some common signs of speech difficulties related to lip tie include:

• Difficulty pronouncing certain sounds, such as “p,” “b,” and “m.”
• Slurred or unclear speech
• Speech that sounds nasal or “stuffy.”
• Difficulty with tongue movements, such as licking or protruding the tongue

If lip tie suspected of causing speech difficulties, a healthcare provider may recommend a frenotomy, speech therapy, or a combination.

Frenotomy can release tension in the frenulum and improve upper lip and tongue mobility.

At the same time, speech therapy can help individuals learn new sound production techniques and improve overall communication skills.

Dental issues

Lip tie can also cause dental issues in children and adults. The tight or thick frenulum can lead to a range of problems with tooth development and alignment, including:

• Gaps between teeth
• Crowding of teeth
• Misaligned bite
• Receding gums
• Tooth decay or cavities

These dental issues can impact oral health and overall well-being, making it essential to address lip tie if it is suspected to be the cause.

Suppose lip tie is suspected to be causing dental issues. In that case, a healthcare provider may recommend a frenotomy and a referral to a pediatric dentist or orthodontist for further evaluation and treatment.

In some cases, orthodontic treatment or dental appliances may recommended to help correct tooth alignment and prevent future dental problems.

Diagnosis of lip tie

Physical examination

A physical examination is often used to diagnose lip tie. During the exam, a healthcare provider will examine the upper lip and frenulum to determine if there is restricted movement or tension.

To perform a physical examination for lip tie, the healthcare provider may:

• Ask the patient or caregiver to lift the upper lip and expose the frenulum
• Use a tongue depressor to lift the lip and examine the frenulum
• Ask the patient or caregiver to lift the upper lip and smile to assess for tension or restriction in movement

Sometimes, a healthcare provider may also perform a feeding assessment for infants or a speech assessment for children or adults to determine if lip tie impacts feeding or speech.

Suppose lip tie is suspected based on physical examination and associated symptoms. In that case, a healthcare provider may recommend a referral to a specialist, such as a pediatrician, pediatric dentist, or lactation consultant, for further evaluation and treatment.

Assessment of symptoms

Assessing symptoms is an integral part of diagnosing lip tie. Signs of lip tie can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the individual’s age. Some common symptoms to assess for include:

• Difficulty breastfeeding or bottle-feeding in infants
• Poor weight gain or malnourishment in infants
• Speech difficulties in children and adults, such as difficulty pronouncing certain sounds or slurred speech
• Dental issues, such as gaps between teeth or crowding
• Pain or discomfort during breastfeeding or bottle-feeding in infants
• Pain or discomfort while eating or speaking in children and adults
• Upper lip or gum pain or irritation
• Tension or tightness in the upper lip or frenulum

During the assessment, the healthcare provider may ask questions about the individual’s symptoms and medical history and perform a physical examination to look for signs of lip tie.

In some cases, the healthcare provider may also recommend additional evaluations, such as a feeding or speech assessment, to further evaluate the impact of lip tie on feeding and communication.

Based on the assessment of symptoms, a healthcare provider may recommend a referral to a specialist, such as a pediatrician, pediatric dentist, lactation consultant, or speech therapist, for further evaluation and treatment.

Treatment of lip tie

Frenotomy

Frenotomy is a simple surgical procedure used to treat lip tie. During the course, a healthcare provider will use sterile scissors or a laser to snip or cut the frenulum, the small piece of tissue connecting the upper lip to the gum line.

Frenotomy is a quick and safe procedure performed in a healthcare provider’s office or clinic.

In infants, local anesthesia used to help reduce pain and discomfort during the process.

After the frenulum is cut, the healthcare provider may apply pressure to the area to help stop bleeding.

Frenotomy can be an effective lip tie treatment and help improve feeding, speech, and dental outcomes.

However, it is necessary to note that some individuals may require additional treatment or therapy, such as speech therapy or dental appliances, to address ongoing symptoms or complications related to lip tie.

After the procedure, following the healthcare provider’s instructions for caring for the surgical site is essential, such as keeping the area clean and avoiding certain foods or activities that may irritate it.

In most cases, individuals can resume normal activities and feeding or speech therapy shortly after the procedure.

Stretching exercises

Stretching exercises recommended after a frenotomy to help prevent the regrowth of the frenulum and improve mobility of the upper lip and tongue.

These exercises involve gently stretching and massaging the area around the surgical site to promote healing and prevent scar tissue formation.

Stretching exercises may include:

• Lip-stretching exercises: Gently lift the upper lip and stretch it upward and outward as far as possible. Hold the stretch for 10-15 seconds and repeat it daily.
• Tongue-stretching exercises: Gently lift and stretch the tongue upward and outward as far as possible. Hold the stretch for 10-15 seconds and repeat it daily.
• Massage: Use your fingers to massage the area around the surgical site in a circular motion for several minutes daily. This can help improve blood flow and promote healing.

It is essential to follow the healthcare provider’s instructions for stretching exercises and to perform them regularly as directed.

In some cases, speech therapy or other therapies recommended to help improve mobility and prevent complications after a frenotomy.

Speech therapy

Speech therapy recommended as a treatment for lip tie, particularly for children or adults experiencing speech difficulties due to the condition.

It can help improve articulation, pronunciation, and overall communication skills.

During speech therapy, a speech-language pathologist (SLP) will work with the individual to develop personalized exercises and techniques to help address their specific speech difficulties. These exercises may include:

• Articulation exercises: focus on improving the ability to form and pronounce specific sounds and syllables.
• Breath support exercises: focus on improving breathing patterns and lung capacity, which can help improve speech clarity and volume.
• Oral motor exercises: These exercises involve using the muscles of the mouth, lips, and tongue to improve coordination and strength.
• Language exercises: focus on improving overall language skills, such as vocabulary, grammar, and comprehension.

In addition to these exercises, the SLP may provide education and training on proper oral hygiene and habits, such as tongue placement and swallowing techniques, to help prevent lip tie complications or reoccurrence.

Speech therapy can effectively treat speech difficulties associated with lip ties.

However, it is necessary to note that some individuals may require additional treatment, such as frenotomy or dental appliances, to address their symptoms and improve overall function fully.

Dental intervention

Dental intervention is recommended for individuals with lip ties experiencing dental issues, such as tooth gaps or crowding.

It can help improve the alignment and overall health of the teeth and gums.

Some common dental interventions for lip tie may include:

• Orthodontic treatment: Orthodontic treatment, like braces or clear aligners, may be recommended to help improve the alignment and spacing of the teeth.
• Dental appliances: Dental appliances, such as a palatal expander or oral sleep appliance, may be recommended to help improve breathing, reduce snoring, and prevent dental issues.
• Periodontal treatment: Periodontal treatment, such as scaling and root planing or gum surgery, may be recommended to address gum disease or other oral health issues.

It is significant to work closely with a dental professional to determine the best course of treatment for your individual needs.

In some cases, a frenotomy or speech therapy is recommended with dental intervention to address the symptoms and complications associated with lip tie entirely.

Complications of untreated lip tie

Breastfeeding difficulties

Breastfeeding difficulties are a common concern for infants with lip tie. The tightness or restriction of the upper lip caused by lip tie can make it difficult for the infant to latch onto the breast and maintain proper suction during breastfeeding. This can lead to poor feeding, inadequate weight gain, and other complications.

Some tips for addressing breastfeeding difficulties associated with lip tie may include:

• Consult with a lactation consultant: A lactation consultant can provide guidance and support to help improve breastfeeding techniques and address any issues related to lip tie.
• Use a nipple shield: A nipple shield can help improve the infant’s latch and suction during breastfeeding. It is crucial to see a healthcare provider or lactation consultant before using a nipple shield to ensure proper use and prevent further complications.
• Consider a frenotomy: In some cases, a frenotomy may be recommended to address lip tie and improve breastfeeding. This can help improve the infant’s ability to latch and maintain proper suction during breastfeeding.
• Pump and bottle feed: If breastfeeding is not possible or problematic, pumping and bottle feeding can be a viable alternative. Also, to ensure proper technique and hygiene, it is essential to check with a healthcare provider or lactation consultant before beginning pumping and bottle feeding.

Working closely with a healthcare provider or lactation consultant is imperative to determine the best action to address breastfeeding difficulties associated with lip ties. In some cases, a combination of interventions, such as a frenotomy and breastfeeding support, may be necessary to address the issue entirely.

Speech and language development delays

The restriction caused by lip tie can interfere with the proper movement of the tongue and lips, affecting speech and language development.

Some tips for addressing speech and language development delays associated with lip tie may include:

• Consult with a speech-language pathologist: A speech-language pathologist can evaluate the child’s speech and language development and provide personalized therapy and exercises to address any delays or issues.
• Consider a frenotomy: In some cases, a frenotomy may be recommended to address lip tie and improve speech and language development.
• Practice oral motor exercises: Oral motor exercises can help improve the strength and coordination of the tongue, lips, and mouth, improving speech and language development. These exercises should be tailored to the child’s individual needs and abilities.

Read and talk to the child regularly: Regular reading and talking to the child can help improve their exposure to language and develop their communication skills.

Working closely with a healthcare provider and speech-language pathologist is essential to determine the best course for addressing speech and language development delays associated with lip tie.

Early intervention and therapy can significantly improve the child’s ability to communicate and develop language skills.

Dental problems

Dental problems are another concern for individuals with lip tie. The tightness or restriction caused by lip tie can interfere with the proper growth and development of the teeth and jaws, leading to issues such as gaps between teeth, crowded teeth, and improper bite alignment.

Some tips for addressing dental problems associated with lip tie may include:

• Consult with an orthodontist: An orthodontist can evaluate the child’s teeth and jaws and provide personalized treatment, such as braces or clear aligners, to address any dental issues caused by lip ties.
• Consider a frenotomy: In some cases, a frenotomy may be recommended to address lip tie and improve dental development.
• Practice good oral hygiene: Good oral hygiene, such as regular brushing and flossing, can help prevent dental issues and maintain healthy teeth and gums.
• Monitor dental development: Regular dental check-ups can help monitor dental growth and identify any issues early on.

It is essential to see a dental professional determine the best action for addressing dental problems associated with lip ties. Early intervention and treatment can help prevent complications and improve dental health.

Conclusion

Summary of key points

Here is a summary of key points related to lip tie:

A lip tie is where the upper lip is attached too tightly to the gums or upper jaw, which can interfere with breastfeeding, speech and language development, dental development, and other issues.

Genetic factors, developmental factors, or a combination can cause lip tie.

Symptoms of lip tie can include difficulty breastfeeding, speech and language development delays, dental problems, and others.

Treatment for lip tie may include frenotomy, stretching exercises, speech therapy, dental intervention, and other interventions depending on the specific symptoms and needs of the individual.

Early intervention is vital for addressing lip tie and preventing further complications.

Working closely with healthcare providers, lactation consultants, speech-language pathologists, and dental professionals can help determine the best action for addressing lip tie and improving overall health and development.

Importance of early diagnosis and treatment of lip tie

Early diagnosis and treatment of lip tie is crucial because it can prevent complications and improve overall health and development. Here are some reasons why early diagnosis and treatment of lip tie are essential:

• Breastfeeding: Lip tie can interfere with breastfeeding by making it difficult for the infant to latch on properly, causing pain and discomfort for the mother, and leading to insufficient milk intake. Early diagnosis and treatment of lip tie can improve breastfeeding success and prevent issues such as low milk supply and nipple damage.
• Speech and language development: Lip tie can restrict the movement of the tongue and lips, which can lead to speech and language development delays. Early intervention and therapy can help improve speech and language development and prevent long-term issues.
• Dental development: Lip ties can interfere with the proper growth and development of the teeth and jaws, leading to dental issues such as gaps between teeth, crowded teeth, and improper bite alignment. Early intervention can help prevent these issues and improve overall dental health.
• Emotional well-being: Lip tie can cause pain, discomfort, and social anxiety for individuals. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent these issues and improve emotional well-being.

Overall, early diagnosis and treatment of lip tie can prevent complications, improve overall health and development, and enhance the quality of life for affected individuals and their families.

It is essential to work closely with healthcare providers and other professionals to determine the best action for promptly addressing lip tie.

People also ask

Does a lip tie need to be corrected?

It depends on the individual’s symptoms and needs. If a lip tie is not causing significant issues, it may not be corrected.

However, correction may be necessary if it is causing problems with breastfeeding, speech, dental health, or other aspects of well-being.

Consulting healthcare providers, lactation consultants, speech-language pathologists, and dental professionals can help determine the best course of action.

Early intervention is key to preventing further complications and improving overall health.

How severe is a lip tie?

The seriousness of a lip tie depends on the individual and their specific symptoms. In some cases, a lip tie may not cause significant issues.

However, in other cases, it can lead to problems with breastfeeding, speech and language development, dental health, and other concerns.

If left untreated, a lip tie can lead to further complications. It is important to consult with healthcare providers, lactation consultants, speech-language pathologists, and dental professionals to determine the best action for addressing the individual’s specific symptoms and needs.

Early intervention prevents further complications and improves overall health and well-being.

At what age should a lip tie be corrected

When correcting a lip tie, the age at which it should be done depends on the individual and their specific symptoms and needs.

Lip tie correction can generally done at any age, from infancy to adulthood. However, early intervention is typically recommended to prevent further complications and improve outcomes.

For example, correcting a lip tie in infancy can help with breastfeeding and avoid speech and dental health issues.

It is essential to consult with healthcare providers, lactation consultants, speech-language pathologists, and dental professionals to determine the best action for addressing the individual’s specific symptoms and needs, regardless of age.

Do babies grow out of lip tie?

No, babies do not typically outgrow lip tie. While some symptoms associated with lip tie, such as breastfeeding difficulties, may improve over time as the baby’s mouth and feeding habits develop, the tissue connecting the upper lip to the gums does not usually resolve independently.

If left untreated, the lip tie may continue to cause issues with speech, dental health, and other areas throughout a child’s life.

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A pivotal part of staying healthy and fit is taking due care of your mental health. There are a bunch of things that you can do to keep yourself mentally fit, active, and healthy. Here, we will enlist a few of them.

Be physically active

Exercise and activity have a positive impact on your good mental health. When you are physically active, you give yourself a sense of achievement, and that boosts the chemical level in your brain. Consequently, it has a positive impact on your mood. Exercise also is linked to a longer and a better life. It also eliminates stress, anxiety, and low mood.

Now, in exercising, you do not have to run a marathon. Any physical activity that you enjoy, dancing, swimming, playing football, or just walking in a garden for 30-60 minutes every day would suffice.

Get the right amount of sleep

Sleep is crucial for your good mental and physical health. When you sleep well, the chemicals in your brain, which transmit the required information, are regulated, and that caters to your mental health. The chemicals are responsible for managing your emotions and moods. Ronald, an associate with TrumpLearning, says that on days he does not sleep enough, he gets all anxious and stressed.

Well, yes, inadequate sleeping hours can leave you feeling depressed and uneasy. So, try to get at least six to hours of sleep every day to ensure a fair and healthy mental balance.

Avoid drugs, smoking, and alcohol

Smoking and drinking are usually the things that we always associate with withdrawal symptoms. Also, they do have a massive implication on your mental health. Whenever you consume a few drinks, you are more likely to feel anxious and depressed the following day. The whole thing can make it hard for you to focus on your day-to-day tasks.

Moreover, drinking excessively can leave you with a thiamine deficiency. Thiamine is highly essential for a proper brain function, and a shortage of the same can cause severe memory problems. It can also lead to eye problems, confusion, coordination issues, among other things. Brian, an educator who offers online homework and assignment help with TFTH, says that until five years ago, he was a chain smoker, and the big problem with it was between smoking the body and the brain went into withdrawal, and that left him anxious and irritable.

Other drugs, too, leave you in retreat and make you feel anxious or low. That is not all. There are a few more severe after-effects of drugs, such as delusions and paranoia. A few studies even suggest that drug abuse can cause mental disorders, such as schizophrenia. So, try to keep away from drugs, alcohol, and tobacco. If you are also addicted to drugs or alcohol, you can go for the drug alcohol addiction treatment which provides the best treatment for your mental health and also helps a person recover from addictions, physical or mental illnesses.

Get Professional Help

Manage stress

At times, stress is unavoidable. Raina, a math homework help provider with TAE, says that every time she has rigid deadlines, she feels stressed. Well, you cannot change or alter the circumstances and the situations you end up in, but you can surely learn an adequate coping mechanism that helps you maintain your mental health.

For this, you can try managing your worries and responsibilities by making a list of things to do, and then cater to them one by one. You will realize that when you break down the stress and your worries and write them down, things seem a lot more manageable.

So, try and avoid burying your head in the sand, and handle your problems one at a time. If the stress is making you unable to sleep, write the things down, practice guided sleep meditation and reassure yourself that you are capable of handling it all in the following days.

Get adequate sunlight

Sunlight is an excellent source of Vitamin D. Vitamin D is vital not only for our bodies but also for our brains. When your body gets enough Vitamin D, it releases chemicals, and that uplifts your mood, just like serotonin and endorphins. Thus, you need to ensure that you go out and soak in the sun whenever you can.

However, whenever you go out in the sun, ensure that your eyes and skin are safe. Daisy, a tutor who offers English homework help with FineGrades, says that she tries to get daily sunlight of 30 minutes every day, but she never steps out without sunscreen and sunglasses.

Well, that is indeed a prerequisite. However, a daily sunlight requirement of 30 minutes to two hours is ideal. A lot of people suffer from SAD, i.e., Seasonal Affective Disorder. It implies that during winters, they tend to feel sad and depressed. If you are experiencing such symptoms, you can consider getting a special light-therapy.

Eat right

Eating right is not only crucial for your body, but it is equally vital for your mind. A few deficiencies, such as Vitamin B12 and iron, can leave you feeling low and sad. Thus, it would be best if you ate a healthy and balanced diet.

If you are feeling sad or depressed, you should try curtailing your caffeine intake, as it does make you feel jittery and anxious.

Porcelain Crowns: Your teeth play a vital role in your life and health. Not only do they allow you to chew food and speak to people, they also shape your face. Your teeth provide confidence and influence your social lives, relationships, and careers.

Unfortunately, your teeth incur damage as you grow due to tooth decay or injuries. This can alter your smile and put you at greater risk for more serious dental concerns. But dental crowns can be placed over your damaged teeth to help restore the functionality and look of your beautiful smile.

Dental crowns are essentially caps that are placed over pre-treated teeth. The crowns protect, cover, and bring back the shape of your teeth when fillings fail to solve the problem or are too large.

The dental crowns are usually metals, ceramics, or porcelain. While all of these have their own benefits, most patients are turning to porcelain crowns for their natural-appearance and strength.

Benefits of the Porcelain Crowns

If you have tried other dental treatment procedures and failed, it may be time you try porcelain crowns.

These crowns are preferable because:

• They look natural
• They improve your oral hygiene and smile
• They can repair severely decaying teeth
• They protect teeth after a root canal
• The procedure is simple and relatively painless
• They are affordable and can be paid in part or full with dental insurance
• They can serve you for 15 to 30 years with proper care
• The risk of fracture is low

The Porcelain Crown Treatment Procedure

• The porcelain crown treatment usually takes two appointments.
• The first visit is for preparing your teeth for the porcelain crown that will be fitted.
• The process entails pinpointing and extracting any weak parts of the tooth and taking imitations to fit a temporary crown
• Sometimes the process may call for an X-ray to determine if your tooth is damaged.
• The dentist will place temporary crowns over your teeth to protect them until the final restorations come in.
• The imitations are sent to the lab to prepare the permanent crowns. This step might take a few weeks.
• At your second appointment, the temporary crowns are removed, and your new custom-made crowns are placed.

Recovery and What to Expect After Porcelain Crown Treatment

You will take a few days to recover after the porcelain crown treatment. You are likely to experience inflammation, sensitivity, and irritation that should disappear within one or two weeks.

Rinsing your mouth with warm salty water will help reduce swelling of the gums. Over-the-counter medications can help manage any discomfort you experience during recovery.

Going back to the dentist is wise if you still feel discomfort and trouble biting during the recovery period. Also, persisting soreness is a sign that the porcelain crowns need adjustments.

Exercising After Receiving Crowns

You do not want a blood clot or separation to lead to further complications and infection. Your caps or crowns need time to hold correctly.

Therefore, it is essential to relax and avoid physical activity for four to five days.

Candidacy for Porcelain Crowns

Tooth Decay

Porcelain crowns are ideal if teeth are severely damaged and cannot support a filling. These crowns are incredible for fractured and decayed teeth. Your dentist will remove the decaying portion and place porcelain crowns on your teeth to support them.

Root Canals

Your dentist may advise you to put porcelain crowns on your teeth after a root canal procedure. Porcelain crowns will strengthen your teeth after the process. However, the option is not mandatory, and your dentist will consult before taking this critical step.

Dental Implants

Dental implants refer to the titanium post placed in your jawbone — not the restoration. Your dentist will fix a porcelain crown(s) to the implants to act like a natural tooth.

Cosmetic Reasons

You can settle for a porcelain crown simply due to cosmetic reasons. Porcelain crowns are a dependable choice if your teeth are severely discolored and do not respond to whitening treatment. Also, if your teeth are misshapen, you can choose porcelain crowns.

Getting a Natural Look Using Crowns

One of the best features of porcelain crowns is that they look like natural teeth. They are colored to match your surrounding teeth and they allow light to bounce off of them just like your natural teeth.

Also, since the entire restoration is made of porcelain, there is no way to see any line of discoloration after placement. On top of all of that, they are metal-free, so individuals who are wary of having metal in their mouth have nothing to worry about.

An unhealthy gut doesn’t just lead to stomach pains and indigestion. Our gut’s health is essential for the rest of our body too!

We get most of the nutrients we need from the food we eat, and where does this food pass through before it gets distributed through our bloodstream? Why, our digestive system, of course! Proper digestion is often vital to adequate nourishment, without which we wouldn’t be able to get by.

Aside from that, the multitudes of bacteria (some good, some bad) that live in our gut, collectively called our microbiome, contribute to various aspects of our health, including our immunity, cardiovascular system, weight management, skin, and even mental health!

A balanced gut microbiome makes all the difference, so don’t take yours for granted! Here’s how to improve gut health naturally so you don’t suffer in the long run!

Improve Gut Health and Achieve Indigestion Relief

Common Digestive Disorders

When we think about gut problems, the first thing that we usually think about is indigestion. It’s one of the most common issues our stomach faces, sometimes on a near-daily basis. But other standard digestive orders could also stem from an unhealthy gut.

This is where timely and appropriate treatments, such as stomach flu treatment, play a crucial role. They can help manage the symptoms, restore gut health, and prevent potential complications arising from prolonged digestive disturbances.

Other than indigestion, common digestive problems could run the gamut from those most heard about, like constipation, diarrhoea, and bloating, to less common ailments, such as IBS, IBD, GERD, gastroenteritis, and other severe digestive issues. These are usually triggered by our body’s inability to digest the food we eat correctly or from harmful bacteria and viruses. Thankfully, most of these issues can be treated — and better yet, prevented!

How to Relieve Indigestion

Let’s start with the basics: what’s indigestion, how do we get it, how can we prevent it, and what can we do to get rid of it?

Indigestion usually happens when our digestive system fails to digest the food we eat properly. This might cause by several factors, including eating too much or too quickly, having too much greasy or spicy food, and drinking too much caffeine or alcohol. Indigestion can even be a symptom of other serious digestive issues or a sign of too much stress. Whatever the case, indigestion can often be avoided simply by watching your diet and ensuring you’re not having too much of a good thing.

Even so, indigestion can strike at the most inconvenient times, so here’s how to relieve indigestion quickly and easily.

Medication: A quick break should be in order if your diet causes your stomach woes. The over-the-counter medication made specifically for relieving symptoms of indigestion, like Enzymedica Digest Gold Digestive Enzymes, is one of the best and fastest ways to soothe aches and discomfort.

Natural remedies: Other natural remedies for indigestion relief, like peppermint, ginger, fennel or chamomile, are great for those who prefer a relaxing cup of tea after a meal.

Apple cider vinegar: Sometimes, indigestion can be caused by the stomach lacking enough acid to break down the food we consume, making it unable to digest properly. A popular home remedy for this is apple cider vinegar, which is naturally acidic. It provides more acid, but apple cider vinegar may also stimulate our stomach to produce more acid, which leads to improved digestion!

Digestive enzymes: Still having trouble breaking down food in your stomach? A lack of digestive enzymes could be the problem. So, what are digestive enzymes? These naturally occurring proteins in our body assist digestion by stimulating the chemical reactions that help break down food in our gut. The more digestive enzymes you have, the smoother the process!

Anti-inflammatories: Gut inflammation can be another cause of indigestion. This can be a symptom of something more serious, like IBD, especially if it’s chronic. Supplements like Terry Naturally CuraMed 750mg are made with herbs for intestinal inflammation and are designed to soothe our digestive tract’s chronic inflammation. Incorporating natural anti-inflammatory foods into your diet could help immensely relieve and prevent further inflammation. Fruits rich in antioxidants, like blueberries, grapes, cherries, and citrus fruits, are a mainstay for managing inflammation. Spices like turmeric, fenugreek and cinnamon are also good options to have.

What If It Gets Worse?

If your indigestion continues, you could have something more severe on your hands. Indigestion is sometimes a symptom of a much larger problem, especially when coupled with other common symptoms like constipation, diarrhoea, and bloating. When push comes to shove, always consult a healthcare professional.

If you cannot seek immediate help, you can still try to relieve some symptoms, especially indigestion, using any of the above methods.

Detox: But if a long-term solution to improve gut health is what you’re after, it might be time for a full detox and reset! A diet full of antioxidants and healthy greens is, as always, the best way to flush out any harmful toxins and clean our bodies inside and out.

Diet and exercise: Along with reducing our intake of fatty, salty, and sugary food, regular exercise, and getting enough sleep, a full detox is easily achievable! One of the simple ways to start is simply by drinking more water if you don’t already have enough daily.

Elemental diet: If you have trouble getting enough nutrients in your daily diet, you can try an essential diet! What is a basic diet? It’s a liquid meal replacement method that contains a complete nutritional profile from the most critical food groups broken down into their most “elemental” or basic form. It’s also a fantastic way to incorporate healthier food into your diet, especially ones you don’t get every day or often. Plus, when it comes in a handy powder form, like Integrative Therapeutics Elemental Diet Powder, you get the convenience of having it anytime, anywhere, whatever way you like it.

The Bottom Line

You may have noticed a trend here by now, but if you haven’t caught on to it yet, here’s a heads up — our diet plays an essential role in maintaining our digestive health and reducing the risk of health issues. So eating healthy, taking digestive supplements, and ensuring you get all the proper nutrients are key factors!

But as always, the best cure is often prevention. One way we can stop indigestion and other symptoms of digestive issues are by maintaining a delicate balance of gut bacteria.

How to Increase Good Bacteria in the Gut Naturally

Believe it or not, our gut needs bacteria! But, like most things, we need to strike a good balance. The precise balance of “good” and “bad” bacteria, also called our gut microbiome or microflora, is essential for our gut health and digestion. But now the question is: how can we restore gut flora?

That’s easy! A substantial dose of prebiotics and probiotics should do the trick to improve gut health and have you on the way to a better digestive process!

Prebiotics vs Probiotics

Now you might wonder, what’s the difference between prebiotics and probiotics? Probiotics contain actual live microorganisms that increase “good” bacteria, decrease “bad” bacteria, restore gut flora, or help maintain healthy gut microflora levels. Prebiotics, meanwhile, feed our microflora, giving them the proper nutrients to thrive.

Both are equally great to have. The only difference is prebiotics are more effective for nourishing already existing microflora in our gut, while probiotics improve deficient microflora levels.

Where To Get Prebiotics And Probiotics Naturally

Thankfully, prebiotics and probiotics are easy to improve gut health and aren’t that hard to come by.

Prebiotics are naturally found in many foods, but mostly in greens, fruits, vegetables, and grains. Foods like chicory, garlic, onions, bananas, and dandelion greens contain significantly more prebiotics than others, but eating a variety of fruits and vegetables should still be enough to get a sufficient amount of prebiotics from your diet alone.

Probiotics, meanwhile, can mostly be found in fermented food, the most common being yogurt. Other examples of food where you can naturally find probiotics include kimchi, kombucha, kefir, pickles, sauerkraut, miso, and sourdough bread.

However, that’s okay if you’re not into yogurt or other fermented foods. You can quickly get both prebiotics and probiotics from natural supplements. Try to find probiotic supplements that contain at least 10 to 20 million CFU of live bacteria. CFU stands for colony-forming units, which means bacteria that can divide and create new cultures, multiplying the amount of microflora in our gut. The more CFU, the better! Always check the label of your favourite yogurt or probiotic supplement for the right amount of CFU.

Renew Life Probiotics Ultimate Flora 200 Billion is a fantastic option that contains up to 200 billion CFU. If you’re wondering how to replenish good bacteria after antibiotics, this probiotic supplement is for you! Prebiotic supplements like Renew Life Prebiotic Fiber Powder are a fantastic source of prebiotics for a powerful boost in gut microflora.

Conclusion

Improving our gut health is more than just eliminating indigestion and other problems. Our digestion is linked to many different aspects of our health, and just like a well-oiled machine, we need every part to keep working correctly to stay in our best health. Like we said earlier, proper digestion is frequently the key to nourishing, so never take your gut health for granted. Now that you know how to develop gut health naturally, you can move on to bigger and better health goals!

If you’re unsure about the state of your gut microflora or which supplements are best for your particular needs, start by consulting a trusted healthcare professional or your local health supplement store.