Ankyloglossia, or more commonly termed “tongue tie”, is a condition in which the frenulum — the skin connecting the tongue to the bottom of the mouth– is either tighter, thicker, or shorter than usual. Ankyloglossia has implications for the oral and cranio-facial development of a child. This condition is present at birth. In the short term ankyloglossia can negatively affect breastfeeding (there is anecdotal evidence that suggests a tongue tie can lead to more painful breastfeeding). But there are long term issues as well that can occur as a result of a tongue tie.
According to a study National Library of Medicine draws a link between a shortened frenulum and forward head posture with an increased risk of Obstructive Sleep Apnea. The study states that a shorter frenulum can contribute to abnormal oral and facial development, leading to an underdeveloped airway. This in turn leads to increased risk of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA).
Obstructive Sleep Apnea is a condition in which the airway is blocked or constricted during sleep. This can lead to interrupted sleep among other issues.
The Tie Between Ankyloglossia and Tongue Placement
Proper tongue placement is the tongue resting on the roof of the mouth. This correct posture aids in expanding the maxilla. It acts as a natural retaining, aiding the mouth towards proper development.
A shortened or abnormal frenulum limits the range of motion that the tongue has, since it “ties” the tongue to the base of the mouth. This lacking range of motion may lead to low tongue posture, when the tongue is positioned closer to the bottom of the mouth.
What Can You Do About It?
Thankfully, tongue ties can be released through a simple procedure. At Ecological Dentistry we perform tongue tie releases with a CO2 laser using assessment and surgical procedures taught by Dr. Faroush Zaghi of The Breath Institute (TBI).
Dr. Faroush Zaghi ENT is a highly qualified sleep surgeon who specializes in mouth-breathing, snoring, sleep apnea, tongue tie, and proper airway development. Visit his website breatheinstitute.com for helpful information on tongue ties.
Dr. Carla Yamashiro is a TBI Ambassador and well-versed in tongue tie releases. For more on tongue ties from us read our older blog about them here.
References:
Brożek-Mądry E;Burska Z;Steć Z;Burghard M;Krzeski A; (n.d.). Short lingual frenulum and head-forward posture in children with the risk of obstructive sleep apnea. International journal of pediatric otorhinolaryngology. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33823467/.