Guide to Tongue-Ties
Moderate to severe tongue-ties that are left untreated can lead to difficulties with the feeding of infants, eating, speech impediments, proper cleaning of teeth leading to tooth decay and gingivitis, swallowing mechanics, sleep disorders.
A tongue-tie is a condition in which a person’s tongue remains attached to the floor of their mouth. An anterior tongue-tie can be present along with a posterior tongue tie. An anterior tie is located in the front of the mouth and is easy to recognize as it will be noticeable when the tongue is raised, and mobility of the tongue will be limited.
A posterior tongue-tie is located at the back of the tongue and is much deeper and will restrict movement of the tongue.
During development our tongue is used to press on our palate and help form a wide and forward maxilla (top jaw). If the tongue is tied down and not able to reach the palate, facial growth will be effected. High and narrow palates will be noted. The tongue will utilize space in the airway and cause a block in airflow. Undiagnosed tongue-ties can lead to sleep disorders.
Have you noticed a heart-shaped tongue when you stick your tongue out of your mouth?
Can you lick an ice cream cone?
Do you experience sore muscles of the head and neck? Tight Jaw?
If the tongue placement is not at the top of the mouth and is restricted to do so, the tongue placement will be low and forward with the mouth open and nasal breathing will ensue. Adults can experience head, neck and jaw tension when a tongue-tie is present. Children can be picky when eating, frequent choking, sustain open mouth resting posture, and many other detrimental signs when a tongue-tie is present. When we assess a tongue-tie our focus is to evaluate the function of the tongue.
Several options are available for releasing a tongue-tie. Look for a provider who is experienced with tongue-ties. We have a network of providers our clients use and trust!! Set up an exam today to discuss further assessment of a tongue-tie!
