Labial Frenum Tie

Labial frenum refers to the small fold of tissue under your upper or lower lip that connects it to your gum. When this frenum is too short or tight, it's called a labial frenum tie. This can restrict the movement of your lip, affecting functions like speaking, eating, and even facial expressions.

Myofunctional therapy can be a valuable tool to address labial frenum ties and improve oral function. Here's a closer look at their connection:

  • A labial frenum tie is a condition where the frenum connecting the lip to the gum is unusually short or tight.
  • In severe cases, it can limit lip mobility, causing a gap between the front teeth when smiling (diastema) and difficulty saying certain sounds.
  • In infants, it can affect breastfeeding ability due to problems latching.

Myofunctional Therapy for Labial Frenum Tie:

  • Myofunctional therapy doesn't directly lengthen the frenum itself, but it can address the functional limitations caused by a labial frenum tie.
  • Therapists use specific exercises to retrain the muscles around the lips and tongue to improve their mobility and function.

Benefits of Myo for Labial Frenum Tie:

  • Improved Lip Movement: Myo exercises can help increase the range of motion of the affected lip, reducing the limitations caused by the frenum tie.
  • Better Speech: By retraining the lip and tongue muscles, myo therapy can improve articulation and help individuals with speech difficulties caused by the frenum tie.
  • Enhanced Oral Function: Myo therapy can address issues like difficulty eating or problems with oral hygiene due to limited lip mobility.
  • Reduced Diastemas: In some cases, improved lip movement through myo therapy can help close small gaps between the front teeth.

Who Can Benefit:

  • Infants with Labial Frenum Tie: Myo therapy can help them develop proper sucking patterns for improved breastfeeding.
  • Children and Adults with Speech Difficulties: If a labial frenum tie is contributing to speech issues, myo therapy can help improve articulation.
  • Individuals with Labial Frenum Tie and Functional Limitations: Myo therapy can address restricted lip movement that affects eating, oral hygiene, or even playing a wind instrument.