Tongue Ties and Myofunctional Therapy in Durango, CO
Part of our evaluation includes screening for tongue tie issues, which could significantly impede the growth and development of the jaw, not to mention issues with swallowing, speech, and digestion. Dr. Rothchild is trained in evaluation and tongue tie release treatment. He and his team are also certified in myofunctional therapy. Learn more about this treatment in this blog post. Myofunctional therapy is essentially physical therapy for the tongue, to aid in teaching the child methods of strengthening the tongue for proper function and position in the mouth. Studies have found that myofunctional therapy before and after tongue tie release treatment significantly aids in the recovery of the tongue tie release procedure.
What Is a Tongue Tie?
A tongue tie, also called ankyloglossia, occurs when the small band of tissue under the tongue (the lingual frenulum) is too short, thick, or tight. This can restrict the tongue’s movement and interfere with normal oral function.
Tongue ties are present at birth and can affect infants, children, and adults. While some people experience no issues, others may develop problems with feeding, speech, oral hygiene, or jaw development.
Signs and Symptoms of a Tongue Tie
Tongue tie symptoms vary by age but may include:
In infants:
- Difficulty latching or staying latched while breastfeeding
- Poor weight gain
- Clicking sounds during feeding
- Excessive gas or reflux
- Maternal nipple pain during nursing
- Poor sleeping
- Mouth breathing
In children and adults:
- Speech difficulties
- Limited tongue mobility
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
- Mouth breathing
- Neck or jaw tension
- Challenges with oral hygiene due to limited tongue movement
- Crooked teeth, narrow arches
- Anterior open bite
- Poor sleep quality
- Snoring sleep disturbances
When is the Best Time to Seek Treatment?
For children and adults, research recommends initial sessions of myofunctional therapy (physical therapy of the tongue) prior to release of the tongue tie to condition the tongue and associated structures for faster healing and optimal results.
Tongue Tie Treatment
If treatment is recommended, the most common procedure is a frenectomy (also called a frenulectomy or frenotomy).
What Is a Frenectomy?
A frenectomy is a quick, minimally invasive procedure that releases the tight tissue under the tongue. Many dental practices use soft tissue laser technology, which offers several benefits:
- Precise treatment
- Minimal discomfort
- Little to no bleeding
- Faster healing
- Minimal Swelling
The procedure typically takes only a few minutes.
What to Expect After Treatment
Most patients heal quickly and experience minimal discomfort. Post-treatment myofunctional therapy sessions are recommended in adults & children to encourage proper tongue movement and prevent scarring and reattachment. In infants, stretching of a tongue by a parent is recommended to prevent scarring and reattachment.
For infants, many parents notice improvements in feeding shortly after treatment. Older children and adults may benefit from additional support, depending on their needs.
Is Tongue Tie Treatment Right for You or Your Child?
Not every tongue tie requires treatment. Our dental team will work with you to determine whether intervention is necessary based on symptoms, function, and overall oral health.
If you have concerns about tongue mobility, feeding, or speech, an evaluation can help provide clarity and peace of mind. Contact us today for an appointment.