Tongue Tie

    For Patients

    Understanding Tongue Tie

    Tongue tie, or ankyloglossia, is a condition where the band of tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth is shorter than usual. This can lead to a range of challenges, from difficulties with breastfeeding in infants to speech issues and oral health problems in older children and adults.

    The Impact of Tongue Tie

    Individuals with tongue tie may experience a variety of symptoms, including:

    • Feeding Difficulties: Infants may struggle to latch properly, leading to frustration for both the baby and the mother.
    • Speech Challenges: Children may have trouble pronouncing certain sounds, impacting their communication skills.
    • Oral Health Issues: Tongue tie can contribute to poor oral hygiene, tooth decay, and gum problems, as the restricted tongue movement can hinder effective cleaning.
    • TMJ and Jaw Pain: In some cases, an improperly functioning tongue can contribute to tension in the jaw and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues, leading to discomfort.

    How We Can Help

    At TMJ Sleep & Therapy Centre of New Orleans, we offer comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment plans for individuals affected by tongue tie. Our approach focuses on:

    • Assessment: We conduct thorough assessments to determine the severity of the tongue tie and its impact on daily activities.
    • Treatment Options: Depending on the individual’s needs, we may recommend surgical intervention, therapy to improve tongue mobility, or strategies to enhance feeding and speech development.
    • Ongoing Support: We provide continuous support and guidance to ensure the best outcomes for our patients.

    Take the Next Step

    If you or your child are experiencing symptoms related to tongue tie, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our compassionate team is here to help you navigate your options and find the right path toward improvement.

    woman holding mouth

    Why Choose Us For Tongue Tie Relief?

    The TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of New Orleans is dedicated to providing expert care for TMJ disorders, including tongue tie. Our team is skilled in the latest diagnostic and treatment techniques, allowing us to develop personalized plans that address the specific needs of each patient. With a holistic approach that considers all aspects of your health, we aim to provide lasting relief and improved well-being. Our state-of-the-art facility ensures you receive the highest standard of care in a comfortable and supportive environment.

    Trust the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of New Orleans to help you achieve a pain-free life with specialized care tailored just for you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start your journey toward pain relief and improved wellbeing.

    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.