Tethered Oral Tissues

Tethered Oral Tissues: Lip & Tongue Ties

Freeing up movement, function, and growth

A tongue-tie or lip-tie occurs when the strip of tissue connecting the tongue or lip to the mouth is tighter or shorter than it should be, restricting normal movement. Left untreated, this can affect feeding and latch in infants, speech articulation, swallowing, oral hygiene, and even facial and dental development over time. At Guided Airway Dental Sleep Medicine, we assess tongue and lip mobility as part of a comprehensive oral and airway evaluation, looking at range of motion, function, and any downstream effects on breathing, growth, or feeding. When a release is needed, we perform laser frenectomy paired with required pre- and post-procedure myofunctional therapy — because a release alone isn’t enough; proper preparation and retraining are what ensure lasting, functional results.

Common Symptoms

• Feeding difficulties in infants — poor latch, reflux-like symptoms, clicking or gulping while nursing or bottle-feeding
• Picky eating, gagging on textures, or trouble with straw cups in toddlers and children
• Speech sound difficulties, especially with t, d, l, and r
• Snoring, mouth breathing, or restless sleep
• High, narrow palate or dental crowding
• Tongue or lip restriction noticed at any age, including difficulty with oral hygiene or swallowing pills

What to Expect at Your Visit

• Review of symptoms, feeding or speech history, and any prior evaluations
• Functional assessment of tongue, lip, and cheek mobility — not just how the tissue looks, but how it moves
• Clear explanation of findings and treatment options, with no pressure to decide the same day
• Coordination with your IBCLC, SLP, or myofunctional therapist when one is already involved

Treatment Options

• Laser frenectomy (tongue-tie and/or lip-tie release)
• Required pre- and post-procedure myofunctional therapy for lasting results
• Guided stretching and post-op care instructions to support healing
• Referral coordination with feeding specialists, bodyworkers, or other providers as needed