Dental Crowns: Beautify and Protect Your Smile in One Visit
While the term “tongue-tie” is often used for newborns and babies that struggle to nurse or drink from a bottle, the condition is more than just a pediatric issue. Many adults have tongue ties that weren’t diagnosed or treated when they were children, resulting in chronic symptoms that most people don’t associate with the tongue at all.
Dr. Nammy looks at tongue ties as a root cause of common issues like headaches, jaw tension, and sleep apnea. The solution is simple: a quick procedure called a frenectomy releases the tongue, allowing you to eat and sleep normally with minimal downtime.
If you’re concerned about an undiagnosed tongue tie, Dr. Nammy can help. Call (415) 636-8437 to schedule an assessment.
What Is a Tongue Tie?
A tongue tie, also known as ankyloglossia, occurs when the band of tissue connecting the tongue to the bottom of the mouth is too short or tight. This tissue band is called the lingual frenulum and typically separates in the womb before birth to prepare babies for nursing. When this doesn’t happen, the tongue’s movement can be restricted. Anyone can be affected by a tongue tie, but it generally presents more in males and in those whose parents or grandparents had a tongue tie.
Tongue Tie Effects
When a tongue is tightly attached to the bottom jaw, it can cause the tongue to rest too low in the mouth and result in poor development of the upper jaw and nasal cavities. It also makes it difficult for the tongue to sweep in between the cheeks and teeth to remove food, which can cause bacteria to grow and put individuals at risk of cavities and gum disease.
Signs You May Have a Tongue Tie
- Tension in the jaw and neck
- Difficulty moving your neck or head
- Poor posture
- Cheek biting
- Food texture sensitivities
- Problems swallowing or clearing food from your mouth
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Mouth breathing
- Sleep apnea
- Speech difficulties
- Grinding or clenching teeth
- Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ)
How a Tongue Tie Release Works
A tongue tie release, or frenectomy, is a straightforward, minimally invasive procedure where a laser is used to divide the frenulum and free the tongue from its tight connection to the bottom of the mouth. Anesthesia typically isn’t required, and bleeding or discomfort is extremely minimal. The tongue and frenulum may be sore for several days or weeks, but are usually manageable with over-the-counter medication to control pain and swelling.
Benefits of a Tongue Tie Release
- Better posture
- Improved sleep
- Easier nasal breathing
- Less snoring at night
- Reduced sleep apnea symptoms
- Chronic pain and tension relief
- Fewer headaches
- Improved swallowing and digestion
- Better oral health
Why Choose Dr. Nammy for Your Tongue Tie Release in San Francisco
Dr. Nammy is a world-renowned holistic dentist with decades in practice. As a published ForbesBooks author and leader in biological and functional dentistry, Dr. Nammy helps patients better understand the connection between their oral and whole-body health and how one impacts the other. She blends advanced dental technology with holistic, wellness-focused dental care so patients can biohack their bodies and optimize their health through their mouth.
Read more about Dr. Nammy Patel here.
Book Your Appointment Today
Contact our San Francisco holistic dental office today to schedule your appointment for a tongue tie evaluation with Dr. Nammy. Call now at (415) 636-8437 or click below.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a tongue tie improve over time without surgery?
Although a restricted frenulum doesn’t loosen naturally over time, certain myofunctional exercises and gentle stretching can provide more range of motion without a tongue tie release.
Is a tongue tie release painful?
Usually, no. Even though the procedure generally lasts only a few seconds, Dr. Nammy will numb the area thoroughly before using a cauterizing laser to snip the frenulum and free the tongue. This ensures you stay comfortable throughout the process.
Will my insurance cover a tongue tie release?
Most insurance providers cover a tongue tie release when it is deemed medically necessary. The procedure may be filed under either your dental or medical insurance depending on your individual policies. We can work with your insurance provider to determine if you have coverage for a tongue tie release and file a claim.
Can a released tongue tie reattach during healing?
Yes. In some cases, a released tongue tie can reattach itself during healing. This happens when the frenulum re-fuses as the body naturally closes the wound. To prevent this from happening, Dr. Nammy will provide a healing protocol that includes tongue exercises and myofunctional techniques.
