Does your child struggle with nursing, speech clarity, or sleep-disordered breathing? Or do you, as an adult, experience tightness under the tongue, trouble swallowing, or jaw pain without a clear cause?
The issue might be a tongue tie or lip tie—conditions that often go unrecognized but can significantly impact oral function, development, and quality of life.
At TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre Indiana, we specialize in diagnosing and treating tongue and lip ties using gentle laser technology paired with myofunctional therapy for optimal results. Whether for infants, children, or adults, early identification and treatment can improve long-term health, comfort, and performance.
What Are Tongue and Lip Ties?
A tongue tie (ankyloglossia) occurs when the tissue (lingual frenulum) connecting the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth is too short or tight, restricting tongue movement.
A lip tie happens when the tissue (labial frenulum) between the upper lip and gums is too thick or tight, limiting lip mobility.
Both conditions are caused by abnormal tissue development in utero and can vary in severity. Though common in infants, tongue and lip ties are often overlooked or misdiagnosed.
Signs of Tongue or Lip Tie in Infants
- Difficulty breastfeeding (poor latch, popping off, prolonged feeds)
- Gassiness or reflux-like symptoms
- Clicking or smacking sounds during feeding
- Inadequate weight gain
- Maternal nipple pain or blocked ducts
Signs in Toddlers and Older Children
- Speech delays or articulation issues
- Mouth breathing or snoring
- Picky eating or gagging on textures
- Open-mouth posture or tongue thrust
- Delayed dental development or spacing issues
Signs in Teens and Adults
- Jaw or neck tension
- TMJ pain or facial discomfort
- Difficulty swallowing or speaking clearly
- Headaches or poor posture
- Sleep-disordered breathing or mild sleep apnea
Tongue ties can also contribute to compensatory habits like clenching, mouth breathing, or poor oral posture—all of which affect long-term dental and airway health.
Why Early Treatment Matters
Tongue and lip ties don’t always “stretch out” over time. In fact, untreated ties can lead to more serious issues as the body adapts to restricted movement.
Benefits of early intervention include:
✅ Improved nursing and feeding
✅ Normal tongue and lip mobility
✅ Reduced risk of future speech and sleep problems
✅ Better jaw and airway development
✅ Healthier oral habits and facial growth
Treating these issues early can prevent years of dysfunction, discomfort, and compensatory habits that are harder to correct later in life.
Our Approach: Laser Frenectomy + Myofunctional Therapy
At TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre Indiana, we use advanced dental lasers to gently and precisely release tethered tissue in a procedure called a frenectomy. This method is:
- Minimally invasive
- No stitches or bleeding
- Fast healing time
- Well-tolerated by patients of all ages
We combine this with myofunctional therapy, which includes simple exercises that retrain the tongue, lips, and facial muscles to move properly after the release. This combination ensures lasting results and helps patients adapt quickly.
What to Expect
- Evaluation
- We assess tongue and lip mobility, oral function, posture, and breathing patterns. We also review symptoms and medical/dental history.
- Laser Procedure (Frenectomy)
- For infants, it takes just a few seconds with minimal distress. For older children or adults, we offer numbing and ensure full comfort.
- Aftercare and Exercises
- We provide post-release care instructions and exercises to promote healing and prevent tissue reattachment.
- Follow-Up and Support
- Ongoing care may include myofunctional therapy, sleep evaluations, or orthodontic support depending on age and needs.
FAQs About Tongue and Lip Tie Treatment
Is the procedure painful?
Laser releases are quick and gentle. Infants may fuss briefly, but recovery is typically fast. Older children and adults may experience mild soreness, easily managed with over-the-counter remedies.
How soon can improvements be seen?
Many breastfeeding parents report immediate improvement. For speech and functional gains, results often appear within days or weeks as the tongue and lips gain mobility.
Is laser treatment safe?
Yes. It’s one of the most precise and low-risk ways to treat oral restrictions with minimal discomfort and faster healing than traditional methods.
Is this covered by insurance?
Coverage varies by age and plan. Our team can help you understand your options and file documentation as needed.
Who Should Consider a Tongue Tie Evaluation?
You or your child may benefit from a tongue tie evaluation if you notice:
- Difficulty nursing or feeding
- Delayed speech or oral development
- Unexplained jaw, neck, or facial pain
- Poor sleep quality or snoring
- Signs of tongue thrust or open-mouth posture
Early detection means earlier relief—and often fewer complications.
Restore Function. Improve Comfort. Breathe Better.
Tongue and lip ties may seem like small problems, but they can affect everything from feeding and speech to breathing and jaw development. With early, precise treatment and supportive therapy, patients of all ages can experience dramatic improvements in daily function and long-term health.
If you’re concerned about oral restrictions for yourself or your child, we’re here to help.
👉 Request an Appointment today for a comprehensive tongue and lip tie evaluation.