Tongue tie release (frenectomy) is often part of the solution, but the real transformation happens when it’s paired with myofunctional therapy and supportive bodywork. At Angela B. Bateson, DDS, we believe in a collaborative, whole-body approach that addresses not just the frenulum but the function, habits, and tension that developed around it.
What Is a Myofunctional Therapist and What Do They Do?
A myofunctional therapist (also called an orofacial myologist) is a specially trained professional—often a speech-language pathologist, dental hygienist, or physical therapist with advanced certification—who focuses on the muscles of the face, mouth, and neck. Their goal is to restore proper oral function through gentle, targeted exercises.
They teach:
- Correct tongue resting posture (tongue on the roof of the mouth)
- Nasal breathing techniques
- Proper swallowing patterns (eliminating tongue thrust)
- Strengthening and coordinating the tongue, lips, and cheeks
- Elimination of harmful habits like thumb sucking or mouth breathing
Therapy is non-invasive, fun for kids, and typically involves short daily exercises done at home with guidance from the therapist.
How Myofunctional Therapy Works with Tongue Tie Release
Myofunctional therapy is most effective when done before and after a tongue tie release:
- Pre-release: Therapy prepares the tongue and surrounding muscles by building strength, improving coordination, and retraining poor habits. This makes the procedure more successful and reduces the risk of reattachment.
- Post-release: After the frenulum is released, therapy helps the tongue learn its new, full range of motion. It prevents scar tissue from limiting movement and ensures the child develops healthy patterns for breathing, swallowing, and speaking.
Studies and clinical experience show that combining frenectomy with myofunctional therapy produces superior, longer-lasting results compared to surgery alone.
The Power of a Holistic Team Approach
Tongue ties don’t exist in isolation—they create tension throughout the fascial network. That’s why the best outcomes come from combining myofunctional therapy with:
- Fascia release (myofascial release): Gentle manual techniques that release restrictions in the connective tissue linking the tongue to the neck, shoulders, and beyond.
- Chiropractic care or craniosacral therapy: These address spinal alignment, cranial bone mobility, and overall body balance, helping to resolve compensatory tension and improve posture and nervous system function.
Many children see improvements in sleep, behavior, feeding, and even headaches within weeks of starting this coordinated care. The team at Angela B. Bateson, DDS, can refer you to trusted local myofunctional therapists, chiropractors, and bodyworkers who understand the interconnected nature of tongue tie.
Is Myofunctional Therapy Right for Your Child?
If your child has been diagnosed with a tongue tie or shows the symptoms outlined in our companion article, myofunctional therapy is often the missing piece. It’s suitable for infants through adults and can prevent future issues like crowded teeth, TMJ pain, and sleep apnea.
Take the Next Step Toward Better Health
Don’t let a tongue-tie hold your child back. Contact Angela B. Bateson, DDS, today to discuss a personalized plan that includes myofunctional therapy, tongue tie release (when appropriate), and supportive care from fascia release and chiropractic specialists. Our Findlay team is here to help your family breathe, sleep, speak, and thrive.
