Conditions / Tongue-tie (ankyloglossia)
Tongue-tie (ankyloglossia)
A restrictive lingual frenulum limits how the tongue can move — affecting feeding in infants, speech in older children, and the swallow, breathing, and rest posture in adults.
What it is
The lingual frenulum is the band of tissue that connects the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth. When it's tight, thick, or attached too close to the tongue tip, mobility is restricted.
Tongue-tie is graded on a spectrum (often using the Kotlow or Coryllos classifications). Not every tongue-tie needs to be released; not every release works without therapy.
Common signs
- ·Difficulty lifting the tongue to the roof of the mouth
- ·Trouble with certain sounds (l, r, t, d, n in particular)
- ·Difficulty licking an ice cream cone or licking the lips
- ·Breastfeeding pain or poor latch (infants)
- ·Gaps between lower front teeth
- ·Jaw tension, neck pain, or forward head posture
How myofunctional therapy may help
Educational, not diagnostic. Outcomes vary; results are not guaranteed.
Pre-frenectomy therapy prepares the tongue and surrounding muscles for the release. It strengthens the tongue, builds body awareness, and sets up post-release habits.
Post-frenectomy therapy is the part that determines whether the release works long-term. Without it, the tongue often re-adapts to old patterns.
We coordinate with your release provider (ENT, dentist, or other).
What to expect
Pre-frenectomy: typically 2–4 weeks of focused exercises.
Post-frenectomy: 6–12 weeks of progressive therapy, then a maintenance program.
For adults with chronic compensation patterns, the full program can take 4–6 months.