Why Having IBCLCs on Our Team Makes Us Unique in Wisconsin

At Wisconsin Tongue Tie Institute, we are proud to be the only facility in Wisconsin providing oral restriction release services with International Board-Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) to assess oral function. This distinction underscores our dedication to offering comprehensive, expert care for infants, children, and adults experiencing challenges related to tongue and lip ties.

What is an IBCLC?

An IBCLC (International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant) is a healthcare professional specializing in the clinical management of breastfeeding. This credential is globally recognized as the gold standard in lactation care, achieved after extensive education, hands-on clinical hours, and rigorous board certification exams.

IBCLCs have deep expertise in:

• Anatomy and physiology of the oral cavity, including how it impacts feeding.
• Identifying and addressing oral restrictions such as tongue ties and lip ties.
• Providing personalized feeding solutions for breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, and beyond.
• Collaborating with other healthcare professionals to create holistic care plans.

Why IBCLCs Are Critical in Oral Function Assessment

Tongue and lip ties affect more than just breastfeeding—they can influence speech, oral development, and overall health. While many providers focus solely on the physical restriction, IBCLCs go beyond by assessing how the tongue and lips function during feeding. This functional assessment is essential to understand:

• How well an infant latches and transfers milk.
• Whether feeding challenges, such as slow weight gain or frequent feeds, are tied to oral function.
• If oral restrictions are contributing to feeding-related pain or frustration for the parent or child.

An IBCLC’s assessment provides a roadmap for addressing not only the restriction but its impact on daily life.

What Sets Us Apart

At Wisconsin Tongue Tie Institute, our IBCLCs play a vital role in creating tailored care plans for each patient. Their work includes:

• Conducting comprehensive pre-procedure assessments to evaluate oral function.
• Supporting parents in developing feeding techniques that work best for their family.
• Offering post-procedure guidance to ensure optimal healing and function.
• Offering continued lactation support throughout their feeding journey.

This integrated approach ensures that our patients receive care rooted in both evidence-based science and compassionate support.

Why It Matters to Families

For parents navigating the challenges of oral restrictions, having IBCLCs on-site means having a trusted guide every step of the way. From identifying feeding concerns to building confidence in aftercare routines, our IBCLCs empower families with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive.

Choosing a facility with IBCLCs ensures that your care is comprehensive, functional, and tailored to your unique needs. At Wisconsin Tongue Tie Institute, we’re proud to offer this level of expertise and support, setting us apart as Wisconsin’s leader in oral restriction release care.