Tongue Tie

Tongue Tie and TMJ Development: Early Intervention Matters

Tongue tie, or ankyloglossia, is a condition present at birth where the tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth—known as the lingual frenulum—is too short, tight, or thick. This restriction limits the tongue’s natural range of motion and can interfere with vital functions like breastfeeding, swallowing, speaking, and breathing.

How Tongue Tie Affects TMJ and Jaw Development

While tongue tie is often identified during infancy due to nursing difficulties, its effects can extend well beyond the newborn stage. A restricted tongue can alter oral posture and swallowing mechanics, both of which are essential for healthy jaw and airway development. When left untreated, tongue tie may lead to mouth breathing habits, poor sleep quality or snoring, and improper tongue posture. It can also contribute to narrowed dental arches, increased muscle tension in the face and neck, and misalignment in jaw growth. Over time, these compensations can place abnormal strain on the temporomandibular joints (TMJs), leading to dysfunction and discomfort later in childhood or adolescence.

Common Symptoms in Children with Tongue Tie

Signs of tongue tie vary by age and severity, but some of the most common symptoms include:

• Difficulty breastfeeding or bottle feeding
• Poor weight gain in infancy
• Excessive drooling
• Delayed speech or unclear articulation
• Snoring or restless sleep
• Frequent headaches or jaw discomfort
• Clicking or popping of the jaw when chewing
• These symptoms often appear gradually, and their root cause may go unnoticed—especially if the tongue tie was never released or properly treated.

Why Choose Us?

We specialize in identifying the structural and functional factors that affect healthy jaw development in children. Our experienced team uses advanced diagnostics to evaluate how a tongue tie may be impacting your child’s growth, posture, breathing, and TMJ function. When needed, we coordinate care with trusted pediatric providers for frenectomy procedures (tongue tie release), and we provide tailored rehabilitation through myofunctional therapy to support healthy muscle patterns. By treating the whole system—not just the symptom—we help set your child up for long-term success in feeding, breathing, and overall wellbeing.