What is a Tongue-Tie?
Ankyloglossia
A tongue-tie, also known as ankyloglossia or tethered oral tissue, is present at just 20 weeks in utero! This congenital condition occurs when an abnormally short or tight band of tissue, also referred to as a lingual frenum, tethers the tongue to the floor of the mouth which limits its range of motion. There is evidence that suggests a familial predisposition for this connective tissue disorder.
How is it Diagnosed?
Unfortunately, there is a wide range of variable understanding on this topic. Many assume that if their pediatrician didn't see a tongue-tie, then it doesn't exist. However, it is important to note that a diagnosis depends on the function of the tongue, not just the appearance. This is why it is crucial to consult with an experienced provider that will consider relevant signs, symptoms, and functional assessments to get an accurate diagnosis. Seeing an orofacial myofunctional therapist is a great place to start.
...and the list goes on.
Please note that the signs and symptoms listed above are not all age-specific. Anyone suffering from a tongue-tie can experience any of these issues at almost any point in life.
It is also worth mentioning that hyper-mobile individuals or those with minor ankyloglossia may never notice symptoms or impairment at all.
Why do Tongue-Ties Matter?
If left untreated, tongue-ties can have lifelong consequences
-
difficult and inefficient feeding
-
colic
-
reflux
-
gassiness
-
frequent spitting up
-
apnea
-
food texture aversions
I Have Lived My Whole Life Like This.
Why Do Something Now?
Choosing to forego a recommended frenectomy at any stage of life has negative consequences. As an adult, we often find excuses to avoid taking care of ourselves. By neglecting care, you are accepting a life sentence with muscular dysfunction and imbalances. Living with these orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMD's) as a result of a restrictive tongue-tie, requires you to compensate with other muscles. As you age, these compensations fade away and often result in difficulties with tasks such as taking pills, drinking water, chewing/swallowing food, and maintaining good oral hygiene. If left untreated, this also negatively influences other aspects of our health including (but not limited to) digestion, breathing, cardiovascular conditions, mental health, and sleep.
If you lift heavy boxes with your back instead of with your knees you will eventually injure yourself.It's not about "if" but "when" you will have a problem and the same concept applies to tongue-ties and OMD's.
Releasing a Tongue-Tie
Fortunately, with the help of a skilled provider, a tongue-tie can be treated with a frenectomy.
A lingual frenectomy, also known as a tongue-tie release, is a minor surgical procedure often completed under local anesthesia for both patient and clinician comfort. During this procedure, the abnormally short or tight band of connective tissue that is tethering the tongue to the floor of the mouth is carefully altered using either a cutting instrument or a laser.
While the healing time for a frenectomy is 2-4 weeks, the re-education period can last for months after a successful procedure. Appropriate pre- and post- operative therapy is crucial to avoid complications and promote functional results.
How to Find a Provider
Choosing to work with an experienced and specialized provider (regardless of cost and location), significantly improves the chance of a successful frenectomy. Keep in mind that not all providers are created equal and it can take time to find someone up-to-date on the diagnostic criteria and treatment of tongue-ties. The ideal clinician will be someone that has an extensive knowledge of wound care and recognizes the importance of myofunctional therapy to the process. Come prepared to ask questions to ensure their approach aligns with your needs and goals!
Questions to Ask During Your Frenectomy Consult
-
How many releases do you perform each week?
-
What ages do you work with?
-
Will I need a second release?
-
Do I also have a lip tie?
-
What method do you use and why?
-
Do you give instructions for wound management?
-
What are your thoughts on myofunctional therapy?
How Functional First Can Help
For best results, we recommend working with a myofunctional therapist for 6-8 weeks prior to a tongue-tie release and continuing therapy for several months afterward. Proper pre-procedural therapy helps to build muscle tone, coordination, and lays the ground work for good oral habits to help with healing and rehabilitation after a frenectomy. Therapy in preparation for a frenectomy not only supports faster recovery, but also makes the procedure easier for the provider, often resulting in a smaller wound site. Orofacial myofunctional therapy post-frenectomy is just as important as physical therapy after any other surgical procedure.