Tongue Tie

    For Patients

    Tongue Tie and Its Impact on TMJ

    At the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of the Greater Toronto Area, we specialize in addressing complex conditions like tongue tie that can significantly impact your or your child’s quality of life. A tongue tie, medically known as ankyloglossia, is a condition where the tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth (lingual frenulum) is unusually short or tight. This restriction can affect oral function and lead to a range of complications, including difficulties with speech, eating, and even breathing. Are you or your child struggling with symptoms that might be linked to tongue tie?

    How Tongue Tie Relates to TMJ

    Tongue tie can affect the natural position of the tongue, causing compensatory behaviors such as altered swallowing patterns and poor oral posture. These issues may contribute to increased strain on the jaw and surrounding muscles, potentially leading to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Over time, this can result in jaw pain, headaches, and misalignment that further exacerbate TMJ dysfunction.

    Symptoms of Tongue Tie

      • Difficulty breastfeeding in infants
      • Speech delays or impediments in children
      • Struggles with chewing or swallowing
      • Snoring or mouth breathing during sleep
      • Chronic jaw tension or pain
      • Limited tongue mobility (e.g., inability to stick out the tongue past the lips)

      Why Choose Us For Tongue Tie Treatment?

      We take a comprehensive and compassionate approach to managing tongue tie and its associated complications. Our specialized team uses cutting-edge diagnostics to assess tongue function and its relationship to TMJ health. Treatment plans are tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient, whether they involve minimally invasive surgical procedures, myofunctional therapy, or a combination of approaches.

      We are dedicated to helping you or your child achieve optimal oral function, relieving discomfort, and enhancing overall wellbeing. By addressing the root causes of TMJ disorders, including conditions like tongue tie, we aim to provide lasting results and improve your quality of life.  Contact the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of the Greater Toronto Area today to schedule a consultation. Our caring team is here to help you on your journey to better health and comfort.

      Frequently Asked Questions About Tongue Tie Treatment in the Greater Toronto Area

      What is the connection between a tongue tie and TMJ issues?

      A restricted tongue (also known as a tongue tie) can impact oral and facial development, leading to improper jaw alignment and strain on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Over time, this can contribute to TMJ-related symptoms such as jaw pain, clenching, and bite issues.

      How can I tell if my baby has an infant tongue tie?

      Signs of an infant tongue tie include difficulty latching during breastfeeding, poor weight gain, clicking sounds while feeding, and prolonged feeding times. If you suspect your child is tongue tied, a consultation with our Toronto centre can help determine the best course of action.

      What is a posterior tongue tie and how is it different?

      A posterior tongue tie is a subtler, often hidden restriction located deeper under the tongue. Unlike the more visible anterior tongue tie, it may not be easily seen but can still cause speech difficulties, feeding issues, or breathing problems. We offer thorough evaluations at our Greater Toronto Area centre to detect and treat these cases.

      Do you treat tongue ties in both children and adults at your Toronto location?

      Yes, we treat tongue tie in patients of all ages—from tied tongues in newborns to adults experiencing speech, breathing, or TMJ symptoms related to restricted tongue movement. Our Toronto team is highly experienced in comprehensive evaluations and effective, minimally invasive treatments.
      TMJ Tongue Tie Treatment in Toronto

      Learn more about what our patients have to say

      about the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of the Greater Toronto Area

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      Jill Krstajic profile picture
      Jill Krstajic
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      It is not an understatement to say that Dr Goodfellow and his staff have greatly improved the quality of my life! My TMJ pain was unbearable and as a Dental Hygienist I was actually skeptical that the treatment would work, it did and I am grateful! I would gladly recommend Dr Goodfellow for anyone suffering TMJ and Sleep Issues.
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      Lanndis De Lallo profile picture
      Lanndis De Lallo
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      This device changed my life. I have had TMJ for as long as I can remember with a long history of orthodontic work from childhood. For the first time as an adult, I can control my jaw pain, clicking, locking and tension headaches with the night time appliance, which I wear every night - I can feel the difference even going one night without it. The daytime appliance also makes a big difference and now I can wear it periodically. Dr. Goodfellow, Cathie, Tina and the entire team are delightful, helpful and I can't thank them enough for helping me implement this life changing, non-surgical solution to my TMJ!
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      Steve McDonald profile picture
      Steve McDonald
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      Before being treated by Dr. Goodfellow I had severe jaw pain so bad I sometimes could hardly eat. That pain is now virtually gone. I am so grateful and I highly recommend Dr. Goodfellow!
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      Julia Leclerc profile picture
      Julia Leclerc
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      I suffered from severe jaw pain and eventually jaw locking. Dr. Goodfellow not only was able to diagnose the issue, he was able to completely redirect my jaw and sleeping patterns with the mouth guard that I now wear to sleep every night. I don’t even get headaches anymore! The difference has been incredible and I am forever grateful. Highly recommend Dr. Goodfellow and his staff.
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      Sandy Hale profile picture
      Sandy Hale
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      I feel very positive about the treatment I received from Dr. Goodfellow and his team over a six month period. My TMJ disorder symptoms have been resolved to the point where I am almost pain free every day. Dr. Goodfellow helped me to understand both the causes of my jaw issues and how the treatments would work towards healing. His staff are friendly, accommodating and extremely knowledgeable and helped to allay any fears I had about treatments. I highly recommend TMJ & Sleep Therapy to any and all persons suffering from TMJ disorders.
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      Anthony Hajsan profile picture
      Anthony Hajsan
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      Dr. Goodfellow is a good fellow (I know, so original)! This is the only place that has helped with my TMJ.
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      oren dishy profile picture
      oren dishy
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      I've had a click in my jaw for over 30 years and over the past year it was constant pain and difficulty chewing. Dr. Goodfellow and his staff provided me with a non-invasive appliance one for the day and one for night and within 6 months I was pain and click free. It's as if I have brand new jaw with no issues whatsoever. Without a doubt, the best medical treatment I've ever received. I would give six stars if it was available.
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      Paula Carmona-Murphy profile picture
      Paula Carmona-Murphy
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      After years of dealing with TMJ pain (and trying different types of appliances) I saw Dr. Goodfellow. I am thrilled with the results. Dr. Goodfellow and his staff are amazing!
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      Shicheng Wu profile picture
      Shicheng Wu
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      Solved on my jaw pain and overbite issues in an efficient way.