When most people think of lip and tongue-ties, they imagine infants who struggle to breastfeed. But these conditions don’t always disappear with age. In fact, many adults continue to live with lip or tongue-ties without realizing that their speech difficulties, jaw discomfort, or even sleep issues may be connected to the restricted tissue. The good news is that a frenectomy—a simple, in-office procedure—can provide relief at any age.
What Are Lip and Tongue-Ties?
A tongue-tie occurs when the tissue (frenulum) beneath the tongue is too short or tight, limiting the tongue’s range of motion. A lip-tie is similar, but it happens when the tissue connecting the upper lip to the gums is restrictive. While these ties are often diagnosed in infancy, many cases go untreated and continue into adulthood.
Symptoms of Lip and Tongue-Ties in Adults
Adults with lip or tongue-ties may experience a wide variety of issues, including:
- Speech challenges, such as difficulty pronouncing certain sounds
- Jaw pain or TMJ symptoms from overcompensating during speech or chewing
- Difficulty eating certain foods or swallowing comfortably
- Gum recession or spacing between the front teeth due to a tight lip frenulum
- Sleep-disordered breathing or snoring linked to restricted tongue movement
Since these symptoms can also be related to other conditions, many people never connect them to a lip or tongue-tie until a dental professional evaluates them.
How Lip and Tongue-Ties Affect Quality of Life
Living with an untreated lip or tongue-tie can have lasting effects. Speech challenges may impact confidence at work or in social settings. Constant jaw discomfort may lead to headaches or chronic pain. Even something as simple as enjoying a meal can feel frustrating when chewing and swallowing are uncomfortable.
Sleep issues are another hidden consequence. Restricted tongue movement may contribute to airway problems during sleep, potentially worsening snoring or sleep apnea. Left untreated, these issues can affect not only oral health but overall wellness.
Can Adults Benefit from a Frenectomy?
Yes—adults can absolutely benefit from having a frenectomy. This minor procedure involves releasing the tight frenulum to allow for greater mobility of the tongue or lip. Modern techniques make the treatment quick, with minimal discomfort and a short recovery time.
After a frenectomy, many adults notice improvements in speech clarity, reduced jaw pain, and greater ease with eating and swallowing. Some also find relief from headaches or sleep-related concerns. Speech therapy, oral exercises, or orthodontic treatment may be recommended afterward to help retrain muscles and support full healing.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore It
If you suspect you have a lip or tongue-tie, it’s worth discussing with your dentist. While the condition may seem minor, it can have a major impact on daily life. Fortunately, treatment is simple, effective, and available at any age.
Your quality of life doesn’t have to be limited by restricted oral tissues. A frenectomy could be the solution you’ve been looking for.
About the Practice
At Garden Oaks Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Ruehle and Dr. Eide provide compassionate, comprehensive care for the Denton community. We offer modern treatments like frenectomy for tongue-ties and lip-ties to help patients overcome functional challenges and improve oral health. Whether you’re experiencing speech issues, jaw pain, or sleep difficulties, our team is here to help restore comfort and confidence in your smile.
Call us at (940) 566-4888 or request an appointment online.