Could Tongue or Lip Tie Affect My Sleep?

If you’ve ever found yourself tossing and turning at night, unable to drift into a deep sleep, you may have considered various reasons behind your restless nights—stress, noise or even the comfort of your mattress. But what if the culprit is more physical, like a tongue or lip tie? Let’s explore what tongue and lip ties are, how they can impact your sleep quality and how revolutionary surgical solutions NYC Tongue Tie offers can help restore restful nights.

Understanding Tongue and Lip Ties

Tongue tie, or ankyloglossia, is a condition in which the frenulum—the band of tissue connecting the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth—is shorter than usual. This can restrict the tongue’s range of motion. Similarly, lip tie involves the frenulum attached to the upper lip, which can also be too restrictive. While these conditions can vary in severity, their potential impact on everyday functions—such as eating, speaking and sleeping—is significant.

Typically, tongue and lip ties are diagnosed in infants or young children. However, many people go undiagnosed even into adulthood, not realizing that their symptoms stem from these conditions. Those affected might experience difficulties in breastfeeding, poor oral hygiene, speech difficulties and even chronic pain or discomfort in their faces, jaws or necks.

How Do Tongue and Lip Ties Affect Sleep?

Sleep is vital for physical and mental health. Unfortunately, tongue and lip ties can interfere with the ability to sleep soundly, leading to a cascade of problems. Here’s how these conditions can impact your rest:

• Airway Complications: Poor tongue mobility can contribute to airway obstruction during sleep. This often results in conditions such as obstructive sleep apnea, where the airway is intermittently blocked, reducing airflow and causing disruptive snoring or gasping for breath.
• Mouth Breathing: A restricted tongue can lead to habitual mouth breathing. Breathing through the mouth can dry out the airways and throat, leading to discomfort and fragmented sleep cycles.
• Jaw Tension and Pain: Tongue and lip ties can sometimes cause jaw misalignment and tension. Chronic jaw pain can lead to bruxism (teeth grinding), which can cause additional stress and distress, disrupting your sleep.
• Suboptimal Sleep Positions: In an attempt to find a comfortable position, individuals may alter their sleep posture due to discomfort or issues arising from a tie. This can lead to waking up with neck pain or discomfort, further hampering the quality of their rest.

According to a 2020 research article published in Clinical Pediatrics, sleep improved in 83% of patients after lingual frenectomies, as reported by parents.

The Dr. Levitin Difference

If you suspect that a tongue or lip tie may affect your sleep quality, you’re not alone; help is at hand. Dr. Gregory Levitin at NYC Tongue Tie is a leading expert in the field, boasting over 2,500 successful in-office procedures designed to safely and effectively release tongue and lip ties.

Dr. Levitin’s approach is innovative. He has pioneered a non-surgical method for tongue tie and lip tie release that requires no hospital visit. His technique leverages minimal anesthesia and is pain-free, taking less than 10 minutes to perform. This unique method eliminates the need for lasers or sutures, offering a quick, effective and comforting solution for patients.

As a board-certified otolaryngologist and head and neck surgeon, Dr. Levitin specializes in providing comprehensive care to both children and adults. He understands the complex relationships between oral health, sleep, and overall well-being, making him uniquely qualified to help those suffering from these conditions.

Restoring Sleep Quality – What to Expect

For many patients, undergoing a tongue or lip tie release can dramatically improve their oral health and sleep patterns. Once the tie is released, the tongue can move freely, promoting better airway function during sleep and reducing the likelihood of mouth breathing.

In addition to immediate relief, many individuals feel a newfound sense of well-being and energy as their sleep quality improves. It’s not just about alleviating symptoms; it’s about enhancing the overall quality of life.

Pain Free, Laser Free Tongue Tie Treatment In Less Than 10 Minutes!

If you struggle with sleep issues, it may be time to consider all possibilities, including the potential impact of tongue and lip ties. With Dr. Gregory Levitin’s in-office, non-surgical approach at NYC Tongue Tie, you can explore a solution that is safe, effective and designed with your comfort in mind. Don’t let sleep complications hold you back. Schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward restful, rejuvenating sleep. Your journey to better sleep—and a better life—starts with a single appointment.