Tongue ties, also known as ankyloglossia, is a condition where the lingual frenulum (the tissue that connects the tongue to the bottom of the mouth) is too short or tight. While tongue ties are commonly associated with breastfeeding issues in infants, they can also affect adults and be linked to conditions like bruxism.

Below, we’ll explore the relationship between tongue ties and bruxism, and how treating a tongue tie could potentially help reduce your symptoms.

What is a Tongue Tie?

A tongue tie is a condition where the lingual frenulum is too short or tight, restricting the tongue’s movement. This can affect speech, eating, and swallowing. Tongue ties are most commonly diagnosed in infants, but can also affect adults. Symptoms of a tongue tie in adults include difficulty speaking or eating, chronic neck and shoulder pain, and even sleep apnea.

The Relationship Between Tongue Ties and Bruxism

So, how are tongue ties related to bruxism? While there isn’t a clear-cut answer, some experts suggest that tongue ties may contribute to bruxism. When the tongue is restricted due to a tongue tie, it may not be able to properly rest in the mouth. This can cause the jaw muscles to work harder to keep the mouth closed, which can lead to tension and grinding.

Additionally, tongue ties can cause issues with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which is the joint that connects the jawbone to the skull. When the tongue is restricted, it can put additional strain on the TMJ, which can lead to pain and discomfort.

Treating Tongue Ties to Reduce Bruxism Symptoms

If you suspect that your bruxism is related to a tongue tie, it’s important to get a proper diagnosis from a healthcare professional. An ear, nose, and throat doctor or a speech-language pathologist can evaluate your tongue tie and determine if it is contributing to your symptoms.

If a tongue tie is diagnosed, the most common treatment is a frenectomy. This is a simple procedure where the lingual frenulum is clipped to release the tongue’s movement. In most cases, a frenectomy can be done in-office using local anesthesia. The procedure is relatively quick and recovery time is usually just a few days.

While a frenectomy may not completely cure bruxism, it could potentially help reduce symptoms. By releasing the tongue’s movement, it can allow for proper resting posture in the mouth and reduce strain on the jaw muscles and TMJ.

Conclusion

Tongue ties can be a contributing factor to bruxism in some cases. If you’re experiencing symptoms of bruxism and suspect that you may have a tongue tie, it’s important to seek a proper diagnosis from a healthcare professional. While treating a tongue tie may not completely cure bruxism, it can potentially help reduce symptoms and improve overall oral health. It’s worth checking out the other possible causes of bruxism and trying to eliminate those in parallel.