The Hidden Impact of Tongue and Lip Ties on Dental Health, TMJ, and Airway Function
Lip and tongue ties (also known as tethered oral tissues or TOTs) are more than just breastfeeding concerns. If left untreated, they can have a lasting impact on the development of the mouth, jaw, and airway.
1. Effects on Teeth
When the tongue is restricted and cannot rest against the palate, the upper jaw may not develop properly. This often results in a high, narrow palate and crowded teeth, increasing the need for orthodontic work later in life.
2. TMJ and Muscle Strain
A restricted tongue can cause compensatory movements in the jaw and surrounding muscles, leading to strain, imbalance, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction. Symptoms can include headaches, jaw pain, clenching, and even neck discomfort.
3. Airway and Breathing
Tongue posture plays a critical role in airway development. If the tongue is tethered and sits low in the mouth, it can contribute to mouth breathing and narrowed airways—raising the risk for sleep-disordered breathing or obstructive sleep apnea.
4. Why Early Intervention Matters
Early diagnosis and treatment—often through a frenectomy combined with myofunctional therapy—can help correct oral posture, relieve strain on the TMJ, and support healthier breathing patterns.
Natural Dentist Associates – How Does Tongue Tie Affect Jaw & Airway Development?
https://naturaldentistassociates.com/how-does-tongue-tie-affect-jaw-airway-development
Pain Free Dentist Sydney – How Tongue Tie and TMJ Disorders Are Tied Together
https://painfreedentistsydney.com.au/blog/2025/1/31/how-tongue-tie-and-tmj-disorders-are-tied-together
TMJ Sleep and Breathe Center – How the Tongue Causes Airway Problems and Sleep Apnea
https://tmjsleepandbreathecenter.com/how-the-tongue-causes-airway-problems-and-sleep-apnea
Tongue Tie Laser Institute – The Link Between Tongue-Tie and TMJ Disorders
https://tonguetielaser.com/tongue-tie/the-link-between-tongue-tie-and-tmj-disorders
Vytal Health – Tongue & Lip Ties: Their Impact on Airway Health and Sleep Apnea
https://vytalhealth.com/tongue-lip-ties-their-impact-on-airway-health-and-sleep-apnea
