Oral Restrictions and Tongue Tie:
The lingual frenum is the tissue that connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth. While everyone has this frenum, some people have a tighter or shorter one, restricting tongue movement and preventing proper tongue posture on the palate. This can lead to mouth breathing, which often results in myofunctional issues like chronic jaw and facial pain, headaches, clenching, and grinding. Lips can also be restricted and should be examined.
A restricted frenum (commonly referred to as tongue tie, restricted frenum, or ankyloglossia) can cause low tongue posture, contributing to mouth breathing. Mouth breathing can lead to inflammation, enlarged tonsils/adenoids, and nasal resistance. Compensating for low tongue posture can cause a forward head posture, neck and shoulder tension, and an increased risk of snoring.
PATIENT EDUCATION
How to Address Tongue Tie:
Tongue tie and oral restrictions are often undiagnosed but can be addressed through surgery ideally after the start of myofunctional therapy, followed by further myofunctional therapy, stretches and exercises. For infants, stretches should be combined with breastfeeding to ensure proper muscle development and tongue movement.
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