CHRISTINE LIVINGSTON, MA, CCC-SLP 
ANKYLOGLOSSIA = “Tongue tied”. Some cases seem genetic. 4.8% of the population.
It is when the frenum, a mucous membrane..a little cord..under the tongue, is abnormally
short and limits adequate range and mobility of the tongue. The condition may affect
oral development, feeding, speech, cosmetic appearance, dental health and more!
Severity can vary and often classified in 4 categories according to the length and where
frenum is attached e.g. tip, middle, posterior. All tend to keep tongue from elevating off the
floor of the mouth.
Frequent Symptoms across the ages:
Infant: Breastfeeding difficulty, failure to thrive, problem transitioning to solids
Children: Difficulty chewing/moving food, sloppy eating, poor oral hygiene, dental issues,
changes in growth & development of the face and jaw, speech articulation problems.
Adults: Tongue thrust, speech misarticulation, jaw pain, dental issues(gums, cavities, etc.)
Treatment involves a surgical release (“frenectomy or frenulectomy”)with local anesthesia
to cut the frenum. Short procedure using a scalpel or laser at doctor’s discretion would
be discussed. Healing time averages 2 to 6 weeks.
Recommended Pre and Post Op Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (OMT) involves specific lingual(tongue) exercises done daily at home to teach new behaviors in readiness for surgery, approximately 4 to 5 sessions. Post surgery to strengthen muscles, teach to move vertically and horizontally, attain normal tongue rest posture all help prevent scar tissue. This is approximately 4 to 5 sessions; however tongue thrust, open mouth, speech, chewing and/or swallowing skills may need to be addressed and require additional lessons. If present, these strong abnormal compensations usually will not automatically correct themselves without the help of a specially trained Orofacial Myologist!