Tongue and Lip Ties

Small Restrictions, Big Impacts

Tongue and lip ties are more than minor oral restrictions—they can affect everything from feeding and speech to airway health and facial development. At Bay Area Dental, Airway & Sleep, we take a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and treating ties, helping patients of all ages overcome challenges and achieve lasting wellness.

Understanding Tongue and Lip Ties

What Are They?


Tongue ties occur when a tight band of tissue beneath the tongue limits its range of motion. Lip ties are similar restrictions where the lip connects to the gums.

Why Do They Matter?


These ties can make breastfeeding difficult for infants, impair speech development in children, and lead to chronic issues like mouth breathing, teeth grinding, or even sleep apnea later in life.

Signs You Might Notice

In Infants

Struggles with latching, prolonged feedings, or frequent fussiness during nursing.

In Children

Speech delays, difficulty swallowing, or restricted tongue movement.

In Adults

Chronic grinding, snoring, mouth breathing, or orthodontic concerns that seem to reappear.

How We Treat Tongue and Lip Ties

Precision Frenectomy with Laser Technology

Using advanced laser tools, we perform gentle, precise releases of tongue and lip ties. The procedure minimizes discomfort and reduces recovery time, often eliminating the need for anesthesia—especially in children.

Myofunctional Therapy for Lasting Results

Prior to a tongue release, myofunctional therapy helps train the tongue to maintain position during surgery and to facilitate the tongue’s normal movement which will lower the chance of the tongue tie reforming.

Comprehensive, Age-Specific Assessments

From infancy through adulthood, we use detailed evaluations to identify ties and their impacts. Early detection often simplifies treatment, while adult patients benefit from thorough assessments that connect ties to their symptoms.

The Importance of Early Intervention

Addressing tongue and lip ties early can prevent a cascade of issues later. For children, this means smoother feeding, clearer speech, and better growth. For adults, it can mean relief from chronic discomfort, improved sleep, and enhanced overall health. Whether you’re seeking relief for your infant, child, or yourself, we’re here to help. Schedule a consultation with Bay Area Dental, Airway & Sleep today to learn how tongue and lip tie treatment can transform your health and well-being.

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