Reviewed By Dr. Jeffery Kesecker, DDS
Reading Time: 3 minutes
Tongue-tie, also known as ankyloglossia, is a condition that affects the mobility of the tongue and can lead to a wide range of symptoms in adults.
It is often associated with speech issues, but tongue-tie can also cause jaw pain due to its impact on oral and facial mechanics.
In this blog, we will explore how tongue-tie can lead to jaw pain, its symptoms, and effective treatment options to help you understand and address this condition.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaway
ongue-tie in adults can cause jaw pain by limiting tongue mobility. It leads to muscle strain, stress on the jaw joint, and improper oral posture.
What Is Tongue-Tie in Adults?
A tongue-tie develops when the lingual frenulum, a thin strip of connective tissue linking the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth, is abnormally short or tight.
This restriction limits the range of motion of the tongue, affecting various aspects of oral function, including chewing, speaking, and swallowing.
Symptoms of Tongue-Tie in Adults
- Jaw pain: Chronic discomfort in the jaw can result from muscle strain caused by limited tongue movement.
- Speech difficulties: Adults with tongue-tie often experience difficulty enunciating or require effort to speak clearly.
- Breathing difficulties: Restricted tongue mobility can contribute to sleep apnea and mouth breathing.
- Oral health issues: A tight frenulum makes it harder to clean the teeth and gums properly, increasing the risk of tooth decay, gum inflammation, and oral hygiene problems.
- Neck pain and head pain: Muscle compensation from improper tongue posture can lead to tension in the neck and head..
The Role of the Tongue in Jaw Function
- Muscle imbalance: The tongue plays a vital role in stabilizing the jaw during speech, chewing, and swallowing. A restricted tongue forces other muscles, such as those in the jaw, neck, and face, to overcompensate, leading to strain and fatigue.
- TMJ stress: Limited tongue mobility can place excess stress on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), the hinge connecting your jaw to your skull. This stress often results in pain, clicking, or difficulty moving the jaw.
- Improper oral posture: A tongue-tie disrupts the natural resting position of the tongue, which can affect jaw alignment over time. This misalignment may lead to crooked teeth, tooth grinding, and chronic discomfort.
Treatment for Tongue-Tie in Adults
A frenectomy is a surgical procedure that involves releasing the tight band of tissue under the tongue, allowing for improved mobility.
The treatment is quick and minimally invasive. A topical anesthesia is applied to numb the area. The tight frenulum is then snipped with either surgical scissors, a scalpel or a cauterizing tool.
Post-Treatment Benefits
- Relief from jaw pain and improved TMJ function.
- Better tongue mobility which improves oral hygiene, chewing, and speaking.
- Prevention of long-term issues like tooth misalignment and gum disease.
Additional Therapies
- Myofunctional therapy: Exercises to strengthen tongue and facial muscles.
- Speech therapy: Support for addressing lingering speech impediments or clarity issues.
- Physical therapy: Alleviating muscle tension in the neck and jaw.
When to Consult an Oral Surgeon
Signs of tongue-tie are not always obvious, but a thorough physical exam can identify whether it is the root cause of your symptoms.
Key signs to look for:
- Difficulty moving the tongue freely or touching it to the roof of the mouth.
- Persistent jaw pain or tightness.
- Speech challenges or altered sleep patterns.
- Oral health concerns such as gum inflammation or difficulty maintaining cleanliness.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it may be time to schedule a consultation with an oral surgeon.
Legacy Surgery: Oral Surgeon in Staunton & Harrisonburg, VA
If you suspect a tongue tie is causing your jaw pain, schedule a consultation with our oral surgeon, Dr. Jeffery Kesecker, at Legacy Surgery.
To book a consultation at our Harrisonburg location, call (540) 437-1230 or visit us at 2071 Pro Pointe Lane, Harrisonburg, VA. To book at our Staunton location, call (540) 213-8750 or visit us at 110 Mactanly Pl C, Staunton, VA.