Tongue Ties & Tots: When a Simple Snip Isn’t Enough
Tongue ties have become a hot topic in parenting and healthcare circles, and for good reason. This seemingly small oral restriction can have a profound impact on a child’s ability to feed, speak, and even breathe properly. While many assume that a quick frenectomy—a simple snip or laser release—will instantly solve the problem, the reality is that proper pre- and post-release therapy is crucial for long-term success.
Understanding Tongue Ties
A tongue tie (ankyloglossia) occurs when the tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth (the lingual frenulum) is too tight, thick, or restrictive. This can limit tongue movement, leading to challenges in breastfeeding, bottle feeding, speech development, and overall oral function. Additionally, restricted tongue mobility can contribute to poor oral posture, impacting airway development and leading to issues like mouth breathing and sleep-disordered breathing.
Why a Simple Snip Isn’t Enough
While a tongue-tie release procedure (frenectomy or frenotomy) can free the tongue, the body and brain need to learn how to use this newfound mobility effectively. Here’s why therapy before and after the release is essential:
Pre-Release Therapy
Before undergoing a tongue-tie release, preparation is key. The tongue muscles and surrounding oral structures may be tight or compensating in ways that need to be addressed before surgery. Pre-release therapy includes:
- Orofacial myofunctional therapy (OMT): Exercises to improve tongue strength, mobility, and coordination.
- Craniosacral fascial therapy (CFT): Helps release tension patterns in the body that may be affecting oral function.
- Suck training for infants: Ensures proper latch and function before release to maximize feeding success afterward.
Post-Release Therapy
After the release, the tongue needs to learn how to move properly without restrictions. Without therapy, some children develop reattachment, compensation patterns, or continued oral dysfunction. Post-release therapy focuses on:
- Stretching exercises: Prevents reattachment of the frenulum.
- Continued OMT: Helps integrate proper tongue posture, swallowing, and breathing patterns.
- Bodywork (CFT, chiropractic, etc.): Supports whole-body integration for optimal function.
The Bigger Picture: Airway & Development
Beyond feeding and speech, a tongue tie can impact airway health and craniofacial development. Restricted tongue mobility can lead to:
- Mouth breathing and poor nasal breathing habits
- Altered jaw and palate development, contributing to crowded teeth and misalignment
- Sleep-disordered breathing (including snoring and obstructive sleep apnea)
Addressing a tongue tie with a comprehensive approach—including therapy before and after a release—ensures not just a functional tongue, but a foundation for proper oral development, breathing, and overall wellness.
Final Thoughts
If you suspect your child has a tongue tie, working with a collaborative team, including a skilled provider for the release and therapists specializing in myofunctional therapy and bodywork, is essential. The goal isn’t just to release the restriction but to empower the child to function optimally in all aspects of feeding, speech, and airway health.
A simple snip isn’t enough—but with the right support, your little one can thrive!
Have questions about your child, schedule a free consult see if we can help!