There is an intricate connection between oral health and overall well-being and as an integrative dental practice Santa Teresa Smiles and Dr. Noha Oushy strives to make sure our patients are treated biologically and wholly. One often overlooked yet crucial aspect is the function of the lingual frenum—the small piece of tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth. When this tissue is too tight or short, it results in a condition known as tongue-tie, or ankyloglossia. This can lead to a cascade of issues, impacting everything from breastfeeding in infants to speech development and even sleep quality in adults.
Understanding the Lingual Frenum and Tongue-Tie
The lingual frenum plays a vital role in tongue mobility, which is essential for various functions like swallowing, speaking, and proper oral development. When restricted, the tongue’s range of motion is limited, leading to numerous complications.
Frenuloplasty vs. Frenectomy: What’s the Difference?
Many people confuse frenuloplasty and frenectomy, but they are distinct procedures.
- Frenectomy —This procedure involves the complete removal of the lingual frenum. It’s often performed when the frenum is significantly restrictive.
- Functional Frenuloplasty —This is a more conservative approach where the frenum is modified or lengthened, rather than entirely removed. It’s often preferred in milder cases or when preserving more tissue is desirable. Dr. Oushy is a The Breathe Institute affiliate and has been trained by Dr. Zaghi.
At Santa Teresa Smiles, we prioritize minimally invasive techniques, utilizing laser technology to correct tongue ties which also reduces bleeding, has minimal discomfort, and faster healing times.
The Importance of Tongue Release
Releasing a restricted tongue, whether through frenuloplasty or frenectomy, is crucial for restoring optimal oral function. Here’s why:
- Improved Breastfeeding In infants, tongue-tie can hinder proper latching and sucking, leading to feeding difficulties and discomfort for both mother and baby.
- Enhanced Speech Development A restricted tongue can affect articulation and pronunciation, potentially leading to speech delays or difficulties.
- Better Swallowing and Digestion Proper tongue movement is essential for efficient swallowing and digestion.
- Reduced Risk of TMJ Disorders Tongue-tie can contribute to imbalances in the jaw and facial muscles, increasing the risk of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
- Improved Sleep Quality In adults, tongue-tie can contribute to sleep-disordered breathing and obstructive sleep apnea. Releasing the tongue can improve airway function and promote better sleep.
- Better Oral Hygiene A free tongue is able to clean the mouth more effectively, reducing the likelihood of cavities and gum disease.
- Better Orthodontic outcomes Tongue ties can contribute to malocclusion, and a release can improve the outcomes of orthodontic treatment.
Long-Term Repercussions of Mild Tongue-Tie
Even seemingly mild tongue-tie can have significant long-term repercussions if left untreated. These can include:
- Chronic neck and shoulder pain.
- Headaches and migraines.
- Digestive issues.
- Postural problems.
- Anxiety and emotional distress due to chronic pain and discomfort.
- Myofunctional issues (abnormal patterns or dysfunctions of the muscles of the face and mouth, impacting functions like swallowing, chewing, speech, and breathing).
An Integrative Approach
As an biological dental practice, we take a integratice approach to diagnosing and treating tongue-tie. We consider the entire body and its interconnected systems, recognizing that oral health is integral to overall health. Our approach includes:
- Comprehensive evaluation of oral function and tongue mobility.
- Collaboration with myofunctional therapists to optimize tongue function and oral habits.
- Utilization of advanced laser technology for precise and minimally invasive procedures.
- Personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
If you or your child are experiencing symptoms related to tongue-tie, don’t hesitate to reach out. We are committed to helping you achieve optimal oral function and overall well-being.
Schedule a consultation with our Dr. Noha Oushy at Santa Teresa Smiles today to learn more about frenuloplasty, frenectomy, and the importance of tongue release. Let us help you unlock optimal oral function and improve your quality of life.
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