Tongue Ties

Tongue Tie Treatment in New Orleans, LA

A tongue tie occurs when the band of tissue beneath the tongue, known as the lingual frenulum, restricts normal tongue movement. This condition can affect infants, children, and adults, potentially contributing to challenges with feeding, speech, oral function, breathing, and overall quality of life. At the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of New Orleans, we provide comprehensive tongue tie evaluations and advanced laser treatment options designed to improve tongue mobility and oral function.

What Is a Tongue Tie?

A tongue tie, also called ankyloglossia, occurs when the lingual frenulum is unusually short, thick, or tight. Some individuals have a visible anterior tongue tie, while others may have a posterior tongue tie that is less obvious but still limits tongue movement.

Restricted tongue mobility can affect oral function in different ways depending on age and severity. Because symptoms vary from person to person, a thorough evaluation is important to determine whether a tongue tie may be contributing to ongoing concerns.

The Relationship Between Tongue Tie and TMJ

Many patients are surprised to learn there may be a connection between tongue tie and TMJ symptoms. When tongue mobility is restricted, the muscles of the tongue, jaw, face, and neck may compensate in ways that affect overall oral function. In some cases, tongue tie TMJ concerns may be associated with muscle tension, jaw discomfort, or altered oral posture.

Patients experiencing TMJ and tongue pain may benefit from an evaluation that considers both tongue function and jaw health. Understanding the relationship between the tongue, airway, and jaw can provide valuable insight into symptoms involving the TMJ tongue and surrounding muscles.

Advanced Laser Technology for Tongue Tie Treatment

At the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of New Orleans, we utilize advanced laser technology to perform precise and minimally invasive tongue tie releases. Laser-assisted treatment can help improve tongue mobility while reducing discomfort and supporting efficient healing.

CO2 Laser

The CO2 laser is a highly effective tool for tongue tie correction, offering precision and minimal discomfort. This advanced technology allows for quick cutting and coagulation with reduced bleeding, swelling, and pain. The CO2 laser’s ability to seal blood vessels and nerve endings as it cuts may also contribute to faster healing times and a reduced risk of infection, making it an excellent option for tongue tie release procedures.

Nd:YAG Laser

The Nd:YAG laser is another innovative option we utilize for tongue tie treatment. Known for its versatility and safety, the Nd:YAG laser delivers precise energy to the targeted area while minimizing thermal impact on surrounding tissues. This technology allows for effective tongue tie release with a relatively comfortable treatment experience and excellent healing outcomes.

Why Choose TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of New Orleans?

Our team takes a comprehensive approach to tongue tie treatment by evaluating oral function, tongue mobility, airway considerations, and potential TMJ-related concerns. We focus on personalized care and advanced technology to help patients achieve improved function and long-term comfort.

Patients choose our practice for:

Advanced CO2 and Nd:YAG laser technology
Comprehensive tongue tie evaluations
Experience treating children and adults
Consideration of airway and TMJ-related factors
Personalized treatment recommendations

Schedule a Tongue Tie Evaluation

If you suspect a tongue tie may be affecting you or your child, a professional evaluation can help determine the best course of action. The TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of New Orleans provides advanced tongue tie treatment in New Orleans using modern laser technology and patient-centered care.

Schedule a consultation today to learn more about your treatment options.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tongue Tie Treatment in New Orleans

Q. What is a tongue tie and how can it affect oral health?

A. A tongue tie occurs when the tissue beneath the tongue (called the frenulum) is too tight or restrictive, limiting normal tongue movement. This can interfere with important functions like feeding, swallowing, speech development, and even proper jaw growth. In some cases, a tongue tie may also contribute to airway or sleep-related issues, especially when left untreated.

Q. What is a posterior tongue tie?

A. A posterior tongue tie is a less visible form of tongue restriction that occurs deeper under the tongue. Unlike a traditional tongue tie, it may not be obvious at first glance, but it can still significantly affect tongue mobility. Posterior tongue ties are often linked to feeding difficulties, tension in the jaw, and oral function problems that may require evaluation by a trained provider.

Q. Can a tongue tie contribute to TMJ or jaw discomfort?

A. Yes, restricted tongue movement can sometimes cause the muscles of the jaw, neck, and face to compensate, which may contribute to tension or imbalance over time. For some patients, tongue tie treatment may play an important role in improving oral posture and reducing strain that impacts TMJ function.

Q. Where can I find tongue tie treatment in New Orleans?

A. If you are looking for tongue tie treatment in New Orleans, the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of New Orleans provides comprehensive evaluations and treatment options for both children and adults. Our team focuses on airway health, oral function, and long-term comfort when addressing tongue tie concerns.

Q. Should I see a tongue tie dentist near me for evaluation?

A. A dentist with specialized training in airway-focused and functional dentistry can help identify tongue tie restrictions and determine whether treatment is needed. If you’ve been searching for a tongue tie dentist near me, a professional evaluation can provide clarity and guide the next steps for care.

Q. What are the benefits of tongue tie treatment?

A. Tongue tie treatment may help improve:

Feeding and swallowing function
Speech development
Oral posture and jaw growth
Breathing and sleep quality
TMJ-related muscle tension in some cases

Every patient is different, so a personalized assessment is essential.

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Learn more about what our patients have to say

about the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of New Orleans

Very Rev. Philip G. Landry

5.0 ★★★★★

Having been diagnosed with sleep apnea in 2003, I was fitted for a head-gear breathing apparatus to alleviate the condition. After struggling with discomfort and lack of sleep, I discontinued use of the device. During a visit to my cardiologist in 2017, I was ordered to take another sleep test which revealed that the condition had reached a dangerous level and that it must be addressed immediately. I shared with Dr. G. Johnson my concerns from the past and he informed me that a new mouth piece for this sleep disorder was available and referred me to Dr. Terry Billings, DDS.

I contacted Dr. Billings and during my first appointment with him, after a series of tests, he determined that I had another condition, TMJ, which would have to be treated before addressing the sleep disorder. He explained to me that I would have to wear mouthpieces, one by day and one by night, for twelve weeks to correct this issue. My instant reaction was that as a Catholic priest serving as the rector of the St. Louis Cathedral, I often celebrate televised Masses during which a mouthpiece would certainly be a deterrent. Dr. Billings patiently and understandingly explained that I really had no option but assured me that he would be able to make weekly adjustments to the mouthpieces that would help with these concerns.

Now as I approach the final weeks of this treatment, I am pleased to share that I have been most satisfied with the care and attention of both Dr. Billings and his staff. The level of professionalism and proficiency which I have experienced in the weekly office visits have made a challenging issue bearable. It is amazing to me what the treatment of the TMJ has done for my overall health and well-being and as I now await the mouthpiece to address my sleep disorder I am most grateful to Dr. Billings for his diagnosis and excellent treatment during this period of preparation for it.

Arden Ballard, PA-C, MS

5.0 ★★★★★

You don’t hear that often about a dentist, but his attention to detail, meticulous examination and in-office testing led to uncovering a severely deviated septum that needed prompt surgical intervention. I’m forever grateful for him and his entire staff.

Dr. Billings noticed that I checked yes to a few items on his questionnaire. When he began asking about my fatigue, sluggish feeling, etc. I blamed it on the kids and being a parent of two young boys. After his dental exam, he insisted that there could be more to my symptoms. After a chat, we decided to do an in-office Facial CT scan. It’s been 4 years since I had one, so I agreed. Everything was promptly scheduled, and their text reminders kept me on schedule.

I did the CT scan, and Dr. Billings pointed out my severely deviated septum and recommended I get a prompt ENT evaluation. I brought a printout of the CT to my next appointment, and I ended up having sinus surgery 3 weeks later.

Immediately after surgery, I knew something was different. After healing, I was sleeping better, breathing better and, sure enough, less sluggish and not reaching for my 3pm coffee. All from going to the dentist.

My teeth look great, too!

Dr. Billings has opened my eyes to understand that dentists are part of the entire medical team, and when using their training to the fullest, they can change lives.