Understanding and Treating Tethered Oral Tissues

Tethered oral tissues (TOTs) include conditions like tongue-tie or lip-tie, where the tissue connecting the tongue or lips to the mouth is too tight or restrictive. These conditions can significantly impact oral function and health at any age.

At PureHealthDental, we specialize in diagnosing and treating TOTs with a holistic approach, improving feeding, speech, and quality of life for our patients.

Spotting the Signs

Mom & Baby

Difficulty latching, painful nursing, and  poor milk transfer
Struggling to gain weight
Gassiness and colic from swallowing  air during feeding
Sore, cracked nipples
Mastitis and breast infections due to improper latching

Children

Limited tongue movement hindering proper speech development, causing delays or difficulties
Challenges in maintaining oral hygiene, leading to cavities and gum disease
Problems with chewing and swallowing
Difficulty eating certain foods,  affecting nutrition

Adults

Tethered oral tissues contributing to obstructive sleep apnea, resulting in poor sleep quality, chronic fatigue, anxiety,  and stress
Jaw pain, headaches, and neck tension developing from compensatory muscle use
Increased dental issues due to difficulty in maintaining proper oral hygiene

Treatment at Any Age

At PureHealthDental, we provide expert diagnosis and treatment for tethered oral tissue for patients of all ages, from infants to adults. Our holistic approach ensures personalized care tailored to your specific needs. As part of our comprehensive care, we offer frenectomies—simple surgical procedures that release restrictive tissues like tongue-tie or lip-tie. This minimally invasive treatment can enhance speech, eating, and breathing, providing immediate relief and long-term benefits.

Elevated Care with Myofunctional Therapy

As a non-invasive treatment option, Myofunctional Therapy serves as the first line of defense against complications from tethered oral tissues. It focuses on natural, effective healing and symptom relief.

It involves a series of exercises designed to improve the strength and coordination of the muscles used for speaking, eating, and breathing. It aims to correct improper habits and patterns that may have developed due to TOTs.

Early implementation of myofunctional therapy can prevent the need for surgical intervention by addressing issues at their root. It helps ensure proper muscle function, supports normal growth of the jaw and facial structures, and maintains a healthy airway.