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Expert Tongue, Lip & Cheek Tie Assessment & Releases

by Greg Notestine, DDS

What to Expect at Your Visit

When you visit Dr. Greg Notestine at The Well, you’ll receive thoughtful, coordinated care designed to support both you and your baby.

01 / Expert Evaluation & Diagnosis

A thorough, unbiased assessment by Dr. Greg Notestine, DDS — a nationally recognized leader in diagnosing and treating tethered oral tissues (TOTS). You will have time for questions before any decisions are made.

03 / 24-Hour Check-In

Within 24 hours, you will receive a phone call or text from Dr. Notestine and/or your lactation specialist to ensure feeding is progressing and your baby is comfortable.

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02 / Personal Lactation Support 

A dedicated lactation specialist will be with you from the moment you arrive — during the evaluation, through any procedure if indicated, and until you leave. You are supported every step of the way.​

04 / One-Week Follow-Up Clinic

A post-frenotomy visit within one week that includes expert lactation support and craniosacral therapy to help your baby integrate the release and continue feeding more effectively.

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About Dr. Greg Notestine

Greg Notestine, DDS

Since 1984, Dr. Notestine has focused on diagnosing and treating tongue-tie and other oral restrictions (TOTS). Families travel from across Ohio and the Midwest for his expertise. We are honored to collaborate with him at The Well: A Center for Wellness to provide coordinated care for you and your baby.

 

Signs of a Tongue, Lip or Cheek Tie

Every baby is different. If you recognize one or more of these patterns, a thorough evaluation can help clarify what may be affecting feeding.

Mother holding infant

Signs in Infants:

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  • Shallow latch

  • Long or very frequent feedings

  • Clicking sounds while feeding

  • Milk leaking or breaking suction

  • Swallowing air, reflux, or gassiness

  • Poor weight gain

  • Falling asleep before finishing

  • Noisy breathing or snoring

  • Calloused lips

Signs in Breastfeeding Parents:​

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  • Persistent nipple pain

  • Cracked or blistered nipples

  • Nipples misshapen after feeds

  • Plugged ducts

  • Mastitis

  • Low milk transfer despite effort

  • Feeling baby never seems satisfied

  • Recurrent thrush

  • Ongoing latch frustration

What Are Tongue, Lip and Cheek Ties?

Inside the mouth are small bands of tissue called frenulum (sometimes called frenums). These membranes connect the tongue to the floor of the mouth and the lips or cheeks to the gums. In some babies, these tissues are shorter, thicker, or less flexible than ideal. When that happens, they may limit normal movement of the tongue, lip, or cheeks. This is commonly referred to as a tongue-tie, lip-tie, or cheek-tie.

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When movement is restricted, it can affect how a baby latches, transfers milk, swallows, and breathes comfortably during feeding. Not all ties require treatment. A careful evaluation helps determine whether the tissue is affecting function — not just appearance.

In certain cases, a minor laser procedure called a frenotomy may be recommended to improve mobility and feeding function.

Why Early Treatment Matters

When oral restrictions significantly limit movement, babies may adapt in ways that make feeding more tiring or less effective. Over time, those patterns can influence muscle development, breathing habits, and oral function.

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Early evaluation allows concerns to be addressed while feeding patterns and motor skills are still developing. In some cases, gentle bodywork and lactation support are enough. In others, a minor laser release may improve mobility and function.

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Baby With Parent

When indicated, timely treatment may help:

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  • Improve latch and milk transfer

  • Reduce feeding fatigue

  • Support healthy weight gain

  • Encourage nasal breathing

  • Promote balanced oral and facial development

Parent Resources

Understanding tongue, lip and cheek ties can feel overwhelming. If you’d like to explore additional educational materials, the following resource provides more in-depth information about oral restrictions and how they may affect feeding and development.

 

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Ready to Schedule an Evaluation?

If you have concerns about a tongue, lip, or cheek tie, we’re here to support you.

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The Well: A Center for Wellness is a collaborative of independent practitioners in Kettering, Ohio offering whole-person care for pregnancy, mental health, bodywork, lactation, and family wellness.

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529 East Stroop Road

Kettering, Ohio 45429

(Directly across from Kroger)

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The content on this website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please contact emergency services or call 988.

© 2026 The Well: A Center for Wellness | 937-356-3162 | 529 East Stroop Road, Dayton, Ohio 45429

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