Are you constantly feeling tongue-tied in Texas? If so, you may be experiencing a common condition called tongue tie, otherwise known as ankyloglossia. This condition occurs when the band of tissue (the lingual frenulum) connecting the base of the tongue to the bottom of the mouth is too tight. In many instances, it’s present at birth, but it can also develop over time, causing difficulty speaking, swallowing, or even sleeping.
Myofunctional therapy can help alleviate the symptoms of tongue-tie, allowing you or your loved one to speak, sleep, and swallow with greater comfort.
What is Tongue Tie?
The condition known as “tongue-tie” or “ankyloglossia” occurs when the lingual frenulum, a band of tissue that connects the base of the tongue to the bottom of the mouth, is too tight or short. This restricts movement of the tongue, making it difficult to perform basic functions like speaking, swallowing, and, in some cases, even sleeping.
There are varying degrees of severity when it comes to tongue-tie; some individuals may experience only a slight speech impediment, while others may have difficulty chewing and swallowing, and still others may find their breathing is impacted. As the issue usually occurs at birth, many parents often find it’s diagnosed early on, typically during the infant’s first doctor’s visit. However, it can also develop later in life due to trauma or infection.
Myofunctional Therapy: A Modern Solution For Tongue Tied Patients
These days, doctors and speech pathologists increasingly turn to myofunctional therapy to help patients manage the symptoms of tongue-tie. This innovative treatment method uses repetitive exercises, specifically designed to enhance the natural movements of the tongue, lips, and jaw.
The goal of myofunctional therapy is to improve the coordination of the muscles used for swallowing, breathing, and speaking. The exercises may include things like tongue lifts, swallowing practice, and lip-curling exercises. Over time, these exercises can help patients overcome some of the basic limitations of tongue-tie.
The results of myofunctional therapy can vary from person to person, depending on the severity and length of time they have been experiencing the symptoms of tongue-tie. However, for many, the exercises can be quite effective at increasing mobility of the tongue, as well as improving speaking and swallowing abilities.
Tongue-Tie & Its Long-Term Effects
Individuals with tongue-tie face a number of challenging long-term issues. For instance, individuals with tongue-tie may have difficulty chewing and swallowing, leading to issues with nutrition and liquids. In addition, tongue-tie is often linked to problems breathing, particularly during sleep, which may ultimately impact the individual’s overall health and wellbeing.
Furthermore, many people with tongue-tie find it difficult to articulate certain sounds, leading to speech impediments. This can be frustrating and, in some cases, it can even impact an individual’s self-esteem.
Conclusion: Myofunctional Therapy Can Help Alleviate The Symptoms Of Tongue-Tie
For those who are experiencing difficulty speaking, swallowing, or even sleeping due to tongue-tie, myofunctional therapy can be a valuable tool. This treatment uses exercises designed to increase range of motion and coordination of the muscles used for speaking, swallowing, and breathing.
The good news is that being tongue-tied is not a life sentence; myofunctional therapy has been shown to be effective in many cases. Although the results may vary from person to person, for some, this modern treatment can help alleviate the symptoms of tongue-tie and restore functionality for improved quality of life.
If you or a loved one is constantly feeling tongue-tied in Texas, it may be time to consider myofunctional therapy. It’s a simple and non-invasive solution to the symptoms of tongue-tie that can reveal significant improvements in speech, swallowing, and overall comfort.