The tongue is a complex part of the body. We can see some of it with our own two eyes by simply looking in the mirror. But aside from the tip and apex of the tongue, there’s a whole lot going on in areas we can’t readily see.

In fact, doctors estimate that upwards of two-thirds of the posterior (back part) of the tongue has been excluded in some modern metrics used in assessing a tongue tie.

In a report published earlier this year in the Journal of Oral Rehabilitation, a team of doctors challenged the notion that the tongue’s mobility (referred to as the Tongue Range of Motion Ratio, or TRMR) could be accurately assessed without sucking the tongue to the roof of the mouth. By incorporating this lingual palatal suction (LPS) as part of the assessment, interventionists are able to determine treatment based on a more comprehensive understanding of the entire tongue.

Why Does This Matter?

Quite simply: this is complicated stuff!

Tongue tie procedures are getting more publicity lately, and there are some cases where patients are dissatisfied with their outcome. In a quick-fix society, many have become accustomed to visiting a proceduralist, receiving a treatment, and going about their lives pre-procedure.

While we’d love for it to be that easy, the truth with tongue ties is that it isn’t that simple.

In order to accomplish a successful outcome, you’ll be required to put in some work. Fairly simple work, yes, but work nonetheless.

What Does Pre- and Post- Tongue Tie Therapy Look Like?

Typically, both before and after a tongue tie release, you’ll be required to do a variety of stretching and strengthening exercises. In some cases, your myofunctional therapist may work with you to retrain your natural habits. Or if you’re the parent of a little one, the therapist will serve as a coach of sorts to help you facilitate the therapies at home.

The benefits of tongue tie release are many, but to reap those benefits requires a degree of diligence and commitment. This is complicated stuff.

At Untethered, we want to help you get the best outcome possible. That requires a comprehensive assessment of the whole tongue, the latest and greatest in pre- and post-procedural myofunctional therapy, and the least invasive tongue tie surgery possible.

We live and breathe this work and invite you to reach out with any questions!