Suraj Vatish explains how early diagnosis and collaborative care of tongue ties can improve oral health and overall lifelong wellbeing.
In holistic health, the body is viewed as an interconnected system where a single issue can have widespread effects. This is particularly evident in the mouth, especially concerning the tongue. Tongue ties, also known as ankyloglossia, might seem like a minor concern, but they can significantly impact breathing, sleep, posture, swallowing, and overall wellbeing.
What is tongue tie?
A tongue tie occurs when a band of tissue, the lingual frenulum, connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth restricts tongue movement. While some tongue ties are easily noticeable, many are considered mild and often remain undiagnosed, especially if they don’t interfere with infant feeding. However, even subtle restrictions can affect growth, development, and function over time.
From a holistic dental perspective, the tongue’s role extends beyond speaking and eating; it’s crucial for the structure and function of the entire face and airway.
A properly functioning tongue rests against the roof of the mouth, guiding the growth of the upper jaw and helping to maintain an open airway during sleep. When the tongue is tethered, it may rest low in the mouth or fall back during sleep, potentially contributing to mouth breathing, snoring, and even sleep apnoea in some cases.
The primary goal is not just to ‘clip a tie’ but to restore proper function, encourage nasal breathing, and support optimal growth and development
Restricted tongue mobility can also hinder its natural cleaning action after eating, potentially increasing the risk of dental decay and gum disease.
Mouth breathing, in turn, has been linked to a variety of issues, including dry mouth, an imbalanced oral microbiome, narrow dental arches, forward head posture, and even behavioural or concentration challenges in children.
Additionally, it results in approximately 20% less oxygen intake compared to nasal breathing, which can affect energy levels, cognitive function, and sleep quality.
Treating tongue tie
A comprehensive evaluation for tongue tie should involve not only a physical examination but also a functional assessment. This includes examining how the tongue moves and how the individual breathes, sleeps, eats and speaks.
Treatment often involves a collaborative approach, including myofunctional therapy (exercises to strengthen oral muscles and retrain habits), bodywork (such as osteopathy), and a tongue tie release using tools like a CO2 laser to minimise trauma and support optimal healing.
The primary goal is not just to ‘clip a tie’ but to restore proper function, encourage nasal breathing, and support optimal growth and development. In infants, this could lead to improved breastfeeding, reduced reflux and better sleep. In older children and adults, it may result in better posture, clearer speech, deeper sleep, and a reduced need for extensive dental or orthodontic interventions.
A holistic approach
Tongue ties serve as a reminder that the mouth is an integral part of the entire body. As awareness increases, more families are seeking dental professionals who adopt a holistic, airway-focused approach.
Early diagnosis and collaborative care can make a significant and lasting difference, not only in oral health but in overall lifelong wellness.
Interested in finding out more about integrative dentistry and holistic care? Dive in to a different way of thinking with our essential guide to holistic dentistry, curated by Dr James Goolnik.
Holistic care
