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Parent\’s Guide to TOTs

(Tethered Oral Tissues)

Part 1

  • About the course
  • Why we created this course
  • What are TOTs
  • Overview of Symptoms 
  • TOTs controversies and myths 

Part 2

  • What are TOTs: specifics
  • Symptoms of TOTs in parents, infant and feeding
  • How TOTs impacts feeding
  • Video animation of infant feeding
  • Discussion of infant “reflux” as it relates to TOTs

Part 3

  • What is an IBCLC 
  • Why an IBCLC is best choice for infant with TOTs
  • Role of IBCLC in team approach
  • “Alphabet soup” of lactation care
  • What to expect during an IBCLC visit
  • Video of breastfeeding infant 

Part 4

  • How to chose a provider for frenotomy
  • Laser vs scissor 
  • Tummy time & body work
  • Stretches and oral (mouth) exercises: overview
  • Pain relief  
  • Preparation for the day of the procedure
  • What to expect on the day of the procedure
  • Video of laser frenotomy

Part 5

  • What to expect after frenotomy
  • What to do if baby won’t latch
  • Bottles, nipples, pacifiers 
  • About healing 
  • Stretches and oral (mouth) exercises: technique
Course Materials

SYMPTOMS OF TETHERED ORAL TISSUES (TOTs)

How TOTs may effect you, baby and feeding

NIPPLE PAIN

How to stop the hurting and start healing

WHAT ARE TETHERED ORAL TISSUES (TOTs)?

Explanation of lip, tongue and buccal ties

SELECTING A PROVIDER FOR FRENOTOMY

Questions to ask before the procedure

PREPARING FOR FRENOTOMY

Guide to day of frenotomy

TEAM APPROACH

Preparation & recovery for breastfeeding infant

STRETCHES AFTER FRENOTOMY

General instructions to support healing of frenotomy sites

ORAL EXERCISES AFTER FRENOTOMY

Helping babies move and strengthen the feeding muscles

WHEN TO CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER AFTER FRENOTOMY

Symptoms that signal a need for medical advice

COURSE REFERENCES

BONUS VIDEOS