Question 1

Do I need a referral?

Accepted Answer

No referral is needed for most patients. However, if you have government-sponsored dental coverage (i.e. ODSP), a referral from your physician or dentist is required for booking your first appointment.

Question 2

What ages do you see?

Accepted Answer

We see patients of all ages, from newborns to adults. Our comprehensive airway-centric approach is beneficial at every stage of life.

Question 3

What should I expect at my child's first visit?

Accepted Answer

For infants, expect a comprehensive airway-centric assessment including breathing evaluation, feeding assessment, clinical examination, and education on optimizing growth and development. For older children, we conduct thorough dental and airway evaluations.

Question 4

How do I schedule an appointment?

Accepted Answer

You can schedule an appointment by calling us at (289) 513-1983, emailing reception@littlebirddental.ca, or using our online appointment request form.

Question 5

Do you accept insurance?

Accepted Answer

We accept most dental insurance plans. Please contact our office to verify your specific coverage.

Question 6

What is a tongue tie?

Accepted Answer

A tongue tie (ankyloglossia) occurs when the lingual frenum — the piece of tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth — is short or inappropriately attached, restricting movement, rest position, and function.

Question 7

What is a lip tie?

Accepted Answer

A lip tie occurs when the upper labial frenum (tissue connecting the upper lip to the gums) is short or inappropriately attached, restricting mobility and function.

Question 8

Does tongue tie affect breastfeeding?

Accepted Answer

Yes, tongue ties can significantly impact breastfeeding. The restricted tongue movement can cause poor latch, inefficient milk transfer, maternal nipple pain, and other feeding difficulties.

Question 9

What is a frenotomy?

Accepted Answer

A frenotomy is a procedure to release a tongue tie or lip tie by cutting the restrictive frenum tissue. Dr. Sigal uses her novel functional scissor release technique for precise, effective releases.

Question 10

Does a tongue tie release hurt?

Accepted Answer

For infants, the procedure is performed awake without sedation — the connective tissue lacks nerve innervation, so discomfort is minimal. Sucrose is provided for comfort. For older patients, general anesthesia is used.

Question 11

What is airway-centric health care?

Accepted Answer

Airway-centric health care focuses on optimizing breathing, which affects every aspect of growth, development, and overall health. It considers tongue position, palate shape, nasal breathing, and their interconnected effects.

Question 12

Why is nasal breathing important for my child?

Accepted Answer

Nasal breathing filters, warms, and humidifies air, delivers double the oxygen compared to mouth breathing, produces nitric oxide for better lung function, and supports proper facial development.

Question 13

How do I know if my child is a mouth breather?

Accepted Answer

Signs include open mouth posture at rest, snoring, dry lips, dark circles under eyes, crowded teeth, and frequent respiratory infections. Our checklists can help you identify potential concerns.

Question 14

What is Buteyko breathing?

Accepted Answer

Buteyko is a breathing method that uses exercises to establish optimal breathing patterns, focusing on nasal breathing and proper breathing mechanics.

Question 15

Is the clinic accessible?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Little Bird is fully accessible with wheelchair access, accessible washrooms with change tables, and ample free parking.

Question 16

Is the clinic fragrance-free?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we maintain a fragrance-free environment for the comfort of all patients, especially those with sensitivities.

Question 17

Do you have facilities for breastfeeding?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we are a breastfeeding-friendly practice with private rooms featuring natural calming features for nursing mothers.

Question 18

What is Snoezelen® and how is it used at Little Bird?

Accepted Answer

Snoezelen® refers to multi-sensory environments that reduce anxiety and create calming experiences. Little Bird pioneered integrating Snoezelen® with healthcare, featuring elements like the Sound Shell Chair, bubble tubes, and sensory spaces throughout the clinic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Getting Started

Tongue Tie & Lip Tie

Airway & Breathing

General Questions

Still Have Questions?