Adult Tongue Tie Removal

Tongue tie, medically known as ankyloglossia, is a condition where the lingual frenulum (the band of tissue that connects the bottom of the tongue to the floor of the mouth) is unusually short, tight, or restrictive. This limitation can restrict the normal range of motion of the tongue, making it difficult to perform basic functions like speaking, swallowing, or breastfeeding in infants.

While tongue tie is often diagnosed in infancy, its impact can extend into adulthood, affecting oral health and overall well-being. When left untreated, tongue tie can contribute to issues like TMJ disorders (TMD) and muscle pain in the jaw, neck, and face.

The restricted movement of the tongue caused by tongue tie can lead to several dental and functional problems:

1. Difficulty with Speech: Individuals with tongue tie often struggle with articulating certain sounds, particularly those that require the tongue to move freely, like "t," "d," and "s." This can lead to speech delays or impairments.
    
2. Breastfeeding Challenges: In infants, tongue tie can make breastfeeding difficult, as the baby cannot latch properly or effectively draw milk from the breast, leading to feeding problems.
    
3. Swallowing Problems: The restriction of tongue movement can result in improper swallowing patterns, which may lead to discomfort or difficulty swallowing food and liquids.
    
4. Dental Problems: Tongue tie may contribute to issues like an open bite or malocclusion (misalignment of the teeth), as the tongue is unable to position itself correctly during swallowing, speaking, or resting.
    
5. Impact on Posture: Over time, restricted tongue movement may cause improper mouth posture, which can contribute to muscle tension in the jaw, neck, and shoulders, and potentially lead to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
    

One of the most significant ways in which tongue tie can impact an individual’s health is through its relationship with TMD (Temporomandibular Disorders) and muscle pain. When the tongue is restricted, it cannot function optimally, which places additional strain on the muscles of the jaw and face. This can lead to a number of symptoms:

• Muscle Tension and Pain: The muscles responsible for chewing (masseter and temporalis muscles) may become overworked as they compensate for the restricted tongue movement. This can lead to muscle tightness, discomfort, and even headaches.
   
• Jaw Clenching and Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): People with tongue tie may unconsciously clench their teeth or grind them, especially at night. This creates added pressure on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and surrounding muscles, contributing to TMD and the development of muscle pain.
   
• Increased Risk of TMJ Dysfunction: When the tongue’s movement is limited, it may affect the alignment of the TMJ, leading to clicking, popping, or pain in the jaw, which are common symptoms of TMD.
   
• Postural Issues: The inability to rest the tongue on the roof of the mouth properly can affect posture, especially head and neck positioning, contributing to neck pain and jaw discomfort.
   

The main treatment for tongue tie is a procedure called frenectomy. This simple, minimally invasive procedure involves the release of the tight or restrictive frenulum, allowing the tongue to move freely and function properly.

A frenectomy involves cutting or releasing the lingual frenulum (the tissue connecting the bottom of the tongue to the floor of the mouth). This can be done using a scalpel, laser, or other specialized instruments. The procedure is typically quick and performed under local anesthesia, making it a low-risk and highly effective solution.

Types of Frenectomy:

• Laser Frenectomy: A laser is used to carefully release the frenulum with minimal discomfort.
   
• Surgical Frenectomy: In some cases, traditional surgery may be performed to release the frenulum, particularly in more severe cases. Dr P. currently only provides surgical frenectomy at this time.
   

• Improved Tongue Mobility: After the frenectomy, the tongue can move freely, improving speech, swallowing, and overall oral function.
   
• Relief from TMD and Muscle Pain: By restoring proper tongue function and reducing the strain on the jaw and facial muscles, a frenectomy can help alleviate muscle tension and reduce the risk of TMD-related symptoms such as jaw pain, headaches, and clenching.
   
• Better Oral Posture: A released tongue allows for proper resting posture, with the tongue resting against the roof of the mouth, which can help reduce strain on the jaw and neck muscles.
   
• Improved Sleep: For some individuals, releasing a tongue tie can improve breathing and reduce the risk of snoring or sleep apnea, contributing to a more restful night’s sleep.
   

A frenectomy is typically recommended if an individual experiences one or more of the following symptoms related to tongue tie:

• Difficulty with speech or articulation
   
• Issues with swallowing or breastfeeding in infants
   
• Jaw pain or discomfort, especially with chewing or speaking
   
• Tension headaches or facial pain
   
• Symptoms of TMD, such as jaw clicking, popping, or limited movement
   
• Difficulty with oral hygiene due to restricted tongue movement
   

Tongue tie (ankyloglossia) can have a significant impact on oral function, speech, and overall well-being. If left untreated, it can also contribute to TMD and muscle pain in the jaw, neck, and face. A frenectomy (tongue tie release) is a simple and effective procedure that can restore proper tongue movement, alleviate muscle tension, and improve overall oral health. If you suspect you or your child may have a tongue tie or are experiencing related symptoms, contact us today to learn more about the procedure and how it may help you.

Resources:

• American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) – https://www.aapd.org
   
• National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) – https://www.nidcr.nih.gov