Tongue Tie Release Surgery for Adults:

Improving Function, Comfort, and Confidence

Tongue tie, or ankyloglossia, isn't just a condition that affects infants and children. Many adults live with the long-term effects of an undiagnosed or untreated tongue tie—impacts that can reach beyond the mouth and affect everyday life. At Calleros Dental, we understand that it’s never too late to address a tongue tie. If you’ve struggled with speech clarity, jaw tension, restricted oral movement, or other challenges, tongue tie release surgery could dramatically improve your quality of life.

Meet our Patient, Gabrielle

After years of pain, discomfort and mobility challenges, Gabrielle learned the cause: she had a grade 4 tongue tie. She came to see us and Dr. Calleros was able to help. Watch the video to hear her story.

What Is a Tongue Tie?

A tongue tie occurs when the lingual frenulum—the small band of tissue under the tongue—is too tight, short, or thick, restricting the tongue’s range of motion. In adults, this restriction can lead to a wide range of functional problems that often go unnoticed or misattributed for years.

How Is Tongue Tie Diagnosed in Adults?

Diagnosis focuses on tongue mobility and function, not just appearance.You might have a "hidden" or "posterior" tie that's not obvious visually but significantly limits tongue movement.

Common signs and symptoms in adults include:

  • Difficulty articulating certain speech sounds clearly

  • Jaw pain, tension, or clicking (TMJ issues)

  • Chronic neck, shoulder, or facial tightness

  • Mouth breathing or sleep-disordered breathing (including snoring)

  • Struggles with oral hygiene (difficulty clearing food debris)

  • Eating discomfort (trouble swallowing, avoiding certain foods)

  • Orthodontic or dental issues (such as crowding or relapse after braces)

  • Challenges with singing, public speaking, or other vocal activities

An experienced provider evaluates how your tongue moves, lifts, and functions during tasks like speaking, swallowing, and breathing.

Why Consider Tongue Tie Release Surgery as an Adult?

Many adults live for years without realizing a tongue tie is behind their discomfort or functional issues.
Releasing a tongue tie can create meaningful improvements, including:

  • Clearer Speech:
    Some adults find it easier to articulate words or reduce a lifetime of mumbling or unclear enunciation.

  • Reduced Jaw, Neck, and Facial Tension:
    A restricted tongue often forces muscles to compensate, leading to chronic strain and discomfort. Release can bring lasting relief.

  • Better Breathing and Sleep:
    Improving tongue posture can help support nasal breathing and reduce airway obstruction during sleep.

  • Easier Eating and Swallowing:
    Many patients report less difficulty with chewing, swallowing, and enjoying a wider variety of foods.

  • Enhanced Oral Health:
    Improved tongue movement makes it easier to maintain good oral hygiene, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.

  • Increased Confidence:
    Whether it's speaking at work, singing, eating out, or simply feeling more comfortable, a freer tongue can improve many aspects of daily life.

What Happens During Adult Tongue Tie Release Surgery?

At Calleros Dental, we offer laser frenectomy—a modern approach to tongue tie release that provides greater precision, minimal discomfort, and faster healing.

The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia and involves:

  • Gently releasing the restricted frenulum with a specialized dental laser

  • Minimizing bleeding and reducing the need for sutures

  • Immediate improvement in tongue mobility

Recovery is usually quick, with mild soreness for a few days.
Post-surgical exercises or myofunctional therapy may be recommended to retrain tongue function and optimize results, especially for adults who have lived with a restriction for many years.

It’s Never Too Late to Improve Your Comfort and Health

Living with a tongue tie isn't something you have to accept. We are here to help and it gives us great joy to help improve people’s lives. If you’ve struggled with tension, speech clarity, breathing, or oral discomfort, tongue tie release surgery can open up a new level of function and freedom.

Contact us to schedule a consultation. Let’s help you rediscover comfortable, confident movement—and the benefits it brings to your health, communication, and everyday life.