At Pure Health Dental in Otsego, MN, we specialize in identifying and treating subtle but impactful anatomical issues that affect breathing, sleep, and facial development. Among these concerns, tethered oral tissues—commonly known as tongue-ties and lip-ties—play a significant role, especially when left untreated in childhood.
In this blog, we’ll explore what tongue- and lip-ties are, how they impact overall health, and how addressing them early can support better breathing, growth, and quality of life.
What Are Tongue-Ties and Lip-Ties?
A tongue-tie (ankyloglossia) occurs when the lingual frenulum—the tissue under the tongue—is too tight, thick, or short. This restricts tongue movement. A lip-tie involves similar restrictive tissue between the upper lip and gums or lower lip and jaw.
While many newborns are diagnosed due to breastfeeding difficulties, tongue- and lip-ties can go unnoticed until more serious concerns appear later in life, including speech issues, snoring, mouth breathing, or misaligned teeth.
Early Symptoms in Infants and Children
Some of the most common signs that your child may have a tongue- or lip-tie include:
- Poor latch or painful nursing
- Excessive gassiness or reflux
- Difficulty transitioning to solids
- Mouth breathing during the day or night
- Delayed or slurred speech
- Snoring or frequent waking during sleep
These early red flags are not just feeding inconveniences—they’re indicators of oral dysfunction that can cascade into structural and airway issues later in life.
The Link Between Oral Tethers and Airway Development
One of the most important but overlooked effects of oral ties is their influence on the airway. When the tongue is restricted, it cannot rest on the roof of the mouth—a key part of how the upper jaw develops. This leads to:
- A narrow palate
- A high-arched roof of the mouth
- Decreased nasal airflow
- Compensatory mouth breathing
Mouth breathing, in turn, changes facial posture, alters muscle function, and affects sleep quality. It’s all connected.
Long-Term Effects in Teens and Adults
Tongue-ties that go untreated in childhood may contribute to a range of issues in later life, including:
- TMJ pain and tension headaches
- Neck and shoulder tightness
- Chronic mouth breathing and snoring
- Obstructive sleep apnea
- Dental crowding
- Speech articulation problems
- Anxiety and poor sleep hygiene
Because these symptoms develop slowly, many adults don’t realize the cause lies in an oral restriction that was never resolved.
Why Tongue- and Lip-Ties Are Often Missed
These ties can be difficult to detect if not functionally assessed. A tongue may appear “normal” when sticking out but still lack proper elevation or side-to-side movement. That’s why at Pure Health Dental, we perform both structural and functional evaluations during your consultation.
Our exam includes:
- Tongue elevation and protrusion tests
- Observation of tongue rest position
- Lip flanging assessments
- Swallowing and chewing pattern checks
- Review of speech, feeding, and sleep behaviors
How We Treat Tethered Oral Tissues
We use a laser frenectomy to release the tethered tissue. This is a safe, quick, and minimally invasive procedure that promotes faster healing and less discomfort than traditional surgical methods.
To ensure success, we integrate:
- Pre- and post-release myofunctional therapy
- Breathing retraining
- Follow-up visits for healing and integration
For young children, we often work in partnership with lactation consultants, ENTs, pediatricians, and speech therapists to support full recovery and function.
Benefits of Early Intervention
Treating oral ties at an early stage can help prevent:
- Orthodontic relapse
- Narrow arch development
- Habitual mouth breathing
- Disrupted sleep cycles
- Delayed speech milestones
Parents who choose early intervention often see improvements in:
- Latching and feeding
- Sleep quality
- Focus and energy
- Facial symmetry
- Confidence in speech and social settings
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Will my child grow out of a tongue-tie?
A: It’s unlikely. While mild cases may not interfere with development, moderate or severe ties can worsen over time without treatment.
Q: Is a laser frenectomy painful?
A: Laser treatment is generally well-tolerated. For children, we use local numbing and comfort-focused techniques. Most resume normal eating within a day.
Q: Does insurance cover frenectomy treatment?
A: Many dental and medical insurance plans offer partial or full coverage. We’re happy to help verify your benefits.
Q: What’s the recovery time?
A: Healing usually occurs in 1–2 weeks, depending on age and adherence to post-op exercises.
Q: Can adults benefit from frenectomy?
A: Yes. Many adults report improvements in sleep, TMJ pain, and breathing after treatment.
Discover the Root Cause of Breathing and Sleep Issues
Tethered oral tissues may be the missing link in your child’s (or your own) health story. Don’t overlook this critical aspect of dental and airway function.
Contact Pure Health Dental today to schedule a consultation in Otsego, MN. Together, we’ll build a path toward better breathing, clearer speech, and healthier growth.
