The Link Between Tongue Ties and Sleep Issues: What Every Parent Should Know

When most people hear about tongue ties, they immediately think of breastfeeding difficulties or speech delays in young children. While those are common challenges, what many don’t realize is that a tongue tie can also have a significant impact on something we all need to function well – sleep! Continue reading to learn about the long-lasting effects a tongue-tie can have on airway development and sleep quality.

How Does Tongue Tie Affect Sleep?

The tongue plays a crucial role in shaping the roof of the mouth (palate) during early development. In a healthy scenario, the tongue naturally rests against the roof of the mouth, applying upward and outward pressure that helps the palate grow wide and flat. This process not only creates space for properly aligned teeth but also opens up the nasal airways for easy breathing.

When a tongue is restricted, it can’t provide that essential scaffolding. As a result, the palate often develops high and narrow, which also narrows the nasal passages. This makes nasal breathing more difficult and encourages mouth breathing, especially during sleep.

Why Is Nasal Breathing So Important?

Breathing through the nose is more than just a preference – it’s essential for healthy sleep. Nasal breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system (the “rest and digest” mode), which promotes relaxation and deep, restorative sleep. In contrast, mouth breathing tends to activate the sympathetic nervous system (the “fight or flight” mode), which can keep the body in a more alert, stressed state – even during sleep.

This constant low-level stress can prevent the body from reaching the deeper stages of sleep needed for full physical and mental recovery. Over time, this can contribute to chronic fatigue, behavioral issues in children, and even the development of conditions like sleep apnea.

How Your Lip & Tongue-Tie Specialist Can Help

The good news is that treatment options are available to address the challenges of tongue and lip ties. At Florida Tongue Tie Institute, we offer a variety of effective treatment options, including traditional frenectomies and CO2 laser frenectomies. These procedures are minimally invasive and are designed to release the restrictive tissue, allowing for better tongue movement, improved feeding, speech, and airway function. With proper treatment, we can help improve your child’s quality of rest!

About the Author

Dr. Maggie Davis is certified in treating infant and pediatric tongue and lip ties by the American Board of Laser Surgery and is a graduate of Dr. Baxter’s Tongue Tie Academy. If you suspect your child has a tongue or lip tie, call (727) 605-4642 or visit our website.