Tongue Tie, Lip Ties, Cheek (Buccal) Ties

What is a Tongue Tie?

Everyone has what is called a “frenum or frenulum.” The frenulum is a tissue that connects the tongue, cheeks and lips to the gum. Visually identifying a band in these areas does not mean that you are “tied” and this cannot be diagnosed without a functional assessment. It is only a true tongue “tie” if it restricts range of motion or impairs function.

Who diagnoses tongue tie in babies?

It’s very common for parents to see a lactation consultant or bodyworker (such as a newborn chiropractor- insert a raised hand here :P) when they are struggling with feeding. Though we cannot diagnose a tongue tie or any other oral ties, our assessment of both the baby and concerns / symptoms helps us to determine whether or not a referral to a Pediatric Dentist is necessary. It’s INCREDIBLY important for your care team to communicate and work together to provide you with an individualized care plan. To see what bodywork looks like for a baby with a tongue tie check out this blog. If you’re new to this space and would like to learn about the different types of oral ties, check out this blog. If you’re curious about what pediatric chiropractic looks like, here’s a video!

Can you have a tongue tie as an adult?

YUP! Tongue ties and other oral ties are present at birth. You can have a tongue tie and develop compensations that allow you to carry on with breastfeeding, speech, etc. and go undiagnosed for years. Many adults are diagnosed with ties as adults when they have been struggling with TMJ issues, chronic neck tension, headaches, sinus issues, grinding, clenching and even sleep-disordered breathing such as snoring, sleep apnea, etc. If you are struggling with these concerns seeing a chiropractor (second-hand raise of the page) with additional training in this area can help reduce the tension and address compensation patterns. We will also address the underlying cause by referring out to an Orofacial Myofunctional Therapist and a release provider such as a Dentist for an evaluation if needed!

Will the tongue tie resolve itself? Can you stretch a tongue tie?

The tissues of the frenulum are not “stretchable.” A tongue tie is present at birth and occurs during development in-utero. You do not grow out of a tongue tie.

Can Chiropractic fix a tongue tie?

Bodywork such as chiropractic, soft tissue work and cranial work can all help with tension caused by the compensations associated with a tie, but cannot “release” a tie. If you suspect dysfunction, it is highly recommended you see a chiropractor for tongue tie to determine how body tension might be contributing to suboptimal functioning and patterns.

Why see a Chiropractor for a tongue tie?

Chiropractors with additional training in tongue ties are familiar with the tension patterns that commonly piggyback oral ties. In adults, we help to reduce discomfort in the areas of concern that lead to the diagnosis such as headaches, neck tension, TMJ pain, etc. In babies, we work to decrease tension patterns that might be impacting breastfeeding | bottle feeding and help your tiny tot to feel more comfortable in their body. If a release is going to be performed, Chiropractic care can also help improve and optimize results of the frenectomy.

When should I see a Chiropractor if I get a tongue tie release?

Seeing a Chiropractor pre and post-tongue tie release is a GREAT way to ensure you are optimizing your results. We’ve all heard that everything in the body is connected. It may be your tongue that is limited, but that limitation can have an impact on body tension all the way down to your toes! Chiropractic and its supportive techniques such as cranial work, addressing the facial system, muscular imbalances (rehab), dry needling (when age appropriate) and so much more all help to reduce tension and compensations at the level of the mouth, but also utilizes a full body approach. This helps to optimize procedure outcomes AND help you or your little one to feel better and more mobile!

2-4 visits pre-tongue tie release, depending on age and severity of symptoms.

Who should I see if I think I have a tongue tie?

If you live in Denver, CO I’d love to be your quarterback of resources and care plan. If not, here are the providers you’ll need on your side:

What are the symptoms of a tongue tie?

If you or your baby has more than a few of the symptoms below, it might be worth getting an evaluation.

How do I know if my baby has body tension?

Here are a few common signs that I commonly see as a pediatric chiropractor. Tension in babies isn’t always from a tongue tie and very likely be from in-utero positioning, container use (car seat, Snuggle Me, etc.) as well as day to day positioning. If any of these sound familiar, feel free to reach out!

• Held head up at birth

• Able to roll immediately after birth (before 3-4 months)

• Prefers one breast

• The torso is in a C-shape position

• Torticollis and preferences for keeping our head off to one side

• Constantly arching

• Dislikes tummy time

Why is it important to address a tongue tie if there are symptoms?

Tethered Oral Tissues (TOTS) can create compensations in the way the body develops including, but not limited to:

• cranial and facial changes due to the cranium (skull)

• movement patterns (it’s common to see torticollis and head shape concerns with oral ties- both of which can restrict free movement)

• developmental milestones such as rolling, crawling, etc. (due to potential asymmetries from tension patterns)

Tongue ties can also create issues with speech, feeding, dental concerns, chronic tension patterns & discomfort and even impact sleep quality as adults.

If you are concerned about a tongue tie, please reach out for a complimentary phone consult or schedule below!