Tongue Ties

Ankyloglossia

 Commonly known as "tongue-tie," is when the lingual frenulum (the membrane that connects the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth) is abnormally short or thick. This restriction limits the mobility of the tongue, potentially causing difficulties with breastfeeding, speech, oral hygiene, and breathing.

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A tongue-tie limits how well the tongue can move. Because the tongue helps with breathing, swallowing, posture, and jaw growth, a restriction can create stress throughout the face, neck, and airway. Over time, this can lead to symptoms many people don’t realize are connected.

• Muscle Imbalance in the Face and Mouth
When the tongue can’t rest on the roof of the mouth or move correctly, other muscles work overtime. This can cause tired, overworked lips, cheeks, and jaw muscles.

• Ear Infections & Poor Drainage
A tongue-tie often leads to mouth breathing and low tongue posture, which affects how the middle ear drains.
It can also cause an incorrect swallow pattern (a “tongue thrust”), where the tongue pushes forward instead of lifting up. A proper swallow helps open and close the Eustachian tubes so the ears can drain. When this doesn’t happen, fluid can build up—leading to congestion and repeated ear infections.

• Jaw & TMJ Symptoms
The tongue helps support and stabilize the jaw. When it’s restricted, the jaw muscles clench and compensate, which can lead to jaw pain, clicking, popping, or tension.

• Head, Neck, and Shoulder Tension
If the tongue can’t do its job, the neck and shoulder muscles often step in to help with breathing and swallowing. This extra effort can cause headaches, neck tightness, and upper-body strain.

• Sleep-Disordered Breathing
A tongue-tie often keeps the tongue low in the mouth, encouraging mouth breathing and a less stable airway. This can contribute to snoring, restless sleep, or symptoms of upper-airway resistance.

• Nervous System Dysregulation
Chronic mouth breathing makes the body work harder and activates stress pathways. This can affect focus, energy, mood, and overall regulation—especially in children.

We work closely with trusted specialists—such as orthodontists, frenectomy providers, and bodywork providers—to fully address tongue restriction when needed. Incorporating this care in harmony with myofunctional therapy creates the best environment for healing, proper muscle function, and long-term success.