The Importance of Myofunctional Therapy with Tongue-Tie Release

The Importance of Myofunctional Therapy with Tongue-Tie Release

Why Dentists, ENTs, and Orthodontists Need to Incorporate Myofunctional Therapy Before and After a Tongue-Tie Release

Tongue-tie, or ankyloglossia, occurs when the lingual frenulum restricts tongue movement, impacting speech, swallowing, breathing, and overall orofacial development. Performing a tongue-tie release (frenectomy or frenuloplasty) without proper pre- and post-operative myofunctional therapy can result in incomplete healing and persistent dysfunction.

For dentists, ENTs, and orthodontists, understanding the importance of orofacial myofunctional therapy (OMT) can significantly enhance patient outcomes and reduce post-surgical complications.

The Research Behind Myofunctional Therapy and Tongue-Tie Release

Numerous studies support the integration of OMT before and after a tongue-tie release:

  • A 2019 study in the International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology found that patients who received myofunctional therapy before and after a tongue-tie release showed significantly improved tongue mobility and function compared to those who only underwent surgery. (Gonzalez et al., 2019)
  • A 2020 systematic review in Clinical Oral Investigations concluded that combining myofunctional therapy with a frenectomy enhances post-operative tongue function, speech, and feeding while reducing the risk of reattachment. (Guilleminault et al., 2020)
  • A 2022 study in The Journal of Oral Rehabilitation highlighted that without adequate pre- and post-op therapy, compensatory muscle patterns persist, leading to ineffective tongue posture, speech challenges, and airway dysfunction. (Yoon et al., 2022)

Problems That Can Arise Without Myofunctional Therapy Before and After a Tongue-Tie Release

Reattachment of the Frenulum

Without proper pre-release stretching and post-op exercises, the surgical site may heal with excessive scar tissue or even reattach. In some cases, restricted mobility becomes worse than before the procedure.

Persistent Dysfunction & Incorrect Tongue Posture

The tongue develops compensatory patterns when restricted. If these habits aren’t addressed before surgery, the tongue may still struggle to function correctly even after release.

Ineffective Breathing & Sleep Issues

A restricted tongue often leads to mouth breathing and poor airway function. If tongue posture isn’t retrained through OMT, conditions like sleep-disordered breathing and obstructive sleep apnea may persist even after the tongue-tie release. (Huang et al., 2020, Sleep Medicine)

Speech & Feeding Difficulties

A tongue-tie release alone does not automatically resolve speech articulation or feeding issues. OMT and speech therapy are crucial to retrain proper tongue movement and coordination.

Jaw & Orofacial Dysfunction

Poor tongue function impacts jaw development, TMJ health, and facial growth. Releasing the tongue without retraining movement can contribute to ongoing craniofacial imbalances. (Ferreira et al., 2018, Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery)

Why This Matters for Your Patients

  • Pre-release therapy strengthens the tongue and prepares it for optimal function post-surgery.
  • Post-release therapy prevents reattachment, reinforces proper tongue posture, and supports full oral function recovery.
  • Long-term benefits of myofunctional therapy include improved breathing, correct tongue posture, and enhanced orofacial health.

For dentists, ENTs, and orthodontists, incorporating orofacial myofunctional therapy into treatment protocols ensures better patient outcomes, prevents complications, and enhances the long-term success of a tongue-tie release. A collaborative approach among orofacial myofunctional therapists, dentists, orthodontists, and ENTs is essential to achieving optimal results.

Tamara Thomas

Tamara is a Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH) and Certified Orofacial Myofunctional Therapist, as well as the owner of Facial Physique Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy. As a mentor, she guides professionals through foundational and advanced myofunctional therapy courses. Tamara serves on the board of the National Network of Healthcare Hygienists, where she advocates for the integration of oral-systemic education in healthcare. Passionate about spreading awareness of myofunctional disorders, she is dedicated to empowering healthcare professionals with the tools to screen and support patients effectively. Her mission is to bridge the gap between medicine and dentistry to promote whole-body wellness.