If you or your child are experiencing difficulty speaking, eating, or even breathing properly, a tongue-tie (ankyloglossia) could be the cause. While a frenectomy procedure is a vital step in addressing this condition, the story doesn’t end there. Effective treatment often includes myofunctional therapy to ensure lasting success.
This blog will guide you through the connection between tongue-tie, frenectomy procedures, and myofunctional therapy. It will also highlight the importance of post-procedure exercises, offer examples, and explain how to find qualified help for optimizing oral function.
What is Tongue-Tie, and What Does a Frenectomy Do?
Tongue-tie, or ankyloglossia, occurs when the lingual frenulum (the tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth) is too short, tight, or thick. This condition often restricts tongue movement, leading to challenges such as:
- Difficulty breastfeeding or bottle-feeding (for infants)
- Speech impediments
- Restricted oral and facial development
- Postural issues involving the head and neck
- Problems with swallowing or breathing
A frenectomy is a minor surgical procedure performed to release the tight lingual frenulum. It allows the tongue to move more freely and eliminates physical restrictions, providing immediate relief from symptoms.
However, a frenectomy only removes the physical barrier. To unlock the full potential of healthy tongue function, myofunctional therapy is usually recommended.
Why Myofunctional Therapy is Important After a Frenectomy
What is Myofunctional Therapy?
Myofunctional therapy is a personalized program of exercises that target the function of the tongue and facial muscles. Its primary goal is to retrain these muscles to ensure proper swallowing, breathing, and resting posture.
While frenectomy resolves the structural issue, the brain and muscles may still rely on poor habits developed due to the tongue-tie. Myofunctional therapy helps:
- Establish new neuromuscular patterns
- Improve strength and coordination of the tongue
- Prevent potential complications, such as reattachment of the frenulum tissue
This two-step approach of combining a frenectomy with therapy is key to long-term success.
Common Myofunctional Exercises After Frenectomy
Once the frenectomy is completed, the next step is consistent and targeted exercises. These exercises help strengthen the tongue and promote proper movement. Here are some commonly recommended post-frenectomy myofunctional exercises:
1. Tongue Extension Exercises
- How to do it: Stick your tongue straight out of your mouth as far as you can (without straining). Hold for 5 seconds, then retract it back.
- Why it’s useful: Improves the range of motion and stretches the newly freed tissue.
2. Tongue Elevation Exercises
- How to do it: Gently touch the tip of your tongue to the roof of your mouth. Hold it there for a few seconds, then release.
- Why it’s useful: Promotes upward tongue strength, crucial for swallowing and proper oral posture.
3. Lateral Tongue Movement Exercises
- How to do it: Move your tongue from one side of your mouth to the other, trying to touch the corners of your mouth.
- Why it’s useful: Enhances coordination and flexibility.
4. Tongue Taps
- How to do it: Rapidly tap your tongue against the roof of your mouth while keeping your mouth slightly open.
- Why it’s useful: Builds strength and coordination, improving speech and swallowing mechanics.
5. Breathing Exercises
- How to do it: Practice nasal breathing over mouth breathing, focusing on deep diaphragmatic breaths.
- Why it’s useful: Encourages proper breathing techniques, reducing mouth breathing habits.
Consistency is key. Your therapist will provide a schedule tailored to your specific needs and healing progress.
Why Consistent Exercises Matter
Diligence in performing exercises brings exceptional benefits:
- Enhanced Mobility: Retraining the tongue ensures full functionality and movement within the oral cavity.
- Speech Improvements: Many tongue-tie cases result in speech delays or issues, but therapy can restore proper articulation.
- Reduced Risk of Reattachment: Exercises prevent scar tissue from limiting motion again post-surgery.
- Improved Oral Posture: An optimal tongue posture supports better breathing, alignment of facial muscles, and even dental health.
These benefits not only resolve immediate challenges but also promote a lifetime of healthier habits.
What to Expect During Myofunctional Therapy
If you’re considering therapy, here’s an overview of the typical process:
Initial Assessment
The therapy begins with an assessment of your oral functions. A licensed myofunctional therapist will evaluate your range of movement, strength, and habits.
Individualized Plan
Based on the assessment, a custom therapy plan will be created. It will likely include specific tongue exercises, posture guidance, and breathing strategies tailored to you.
Regular Sessions
Therapy usually involves scheduled sessions with your therapist to monitor progress and fine-tune exercises.
Home Practice
You’ll also be assigned daily or weekly exercises to practice at home, ensuring continuous improvement.
Timeline
Progress varies by individual, but consistency can lead to noticeable improvements within weeks. Long-term commitment ensures stability and success.
How to Find a Qualified Myofunctional Therapist
Finding the right professional is essential. Here are some tips to guide your search:
- Credentials and Expertise: Look for someone certified in myofunctional therapy and experienced in post-frenectomy care.
- Consultation Questions: Ask about their approach, experience, and proposed treatment plan.
- Resources: Utilize directories like the International Association of Orofacial Myology (IAOM) to find licensed therapists in your area.
The right therapist will offer expertise, support, and encouragement to make your therapy process as seamless as possible.
Achieving Optimal Oral Health Through Therapy
While a frenectomy addresses the structural problem of a tongue-tie, myofunctional therapy is crucial for holistic and long-term success. It strengthens oral muscles, retrains habits, and fosters functional improvements in speaking, eating, and breathing.
If you’ve recently undergone or are considering a frenectomy, prioritize finding a qualified therapist and committing to the recommended exercises. Together, these steps ensure a smoother transition to better oral health and enhanced quality of life.
Need help getting started? Reach out to a myofunctional therapy expert today and take the next step toward optimal oral function.