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Tongue-tie (ankyloglossia) is a condition present at birth that restricts the tongue's range of motion. This restriction, if left undiagnosed, can be problematic for teeth alignment, craniofacial growth, speech and breathing.

Improper swallowing with tongue thrusting forward.

Nasal breathing is responsible for proper craniofacial development and enhances oxygen absorption into our lungs. It is also necessary for the body to access all levels of sleep, especially the "rest and restore" level. Learn more about mouth breathing by clicking here or by watching this video.

Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common sleep-related breathing disorder. Sleep apnea can cause serious health issues such as high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke and diabetes. Snoring can be a red flag that the upper airway is collapsing during sleep, thus causing the snoring sound. Learn more about pediatric sleep apnea and adult sleep apnea.

Abnormal teeth alignment, incorrect bite and narrow dental arches require orthodontic intervention. At times this is caused by an oral habit learned as a child. This can include mouth breathing and tongue thrust. If the root cause is not corrected early on, this will continue into adulthood often causing orthodontic relapse. Read more by clicking here.

Clenching and grinding are attributed to airway resistance in some individuals. When the airway is too narrow or compromised, the body's response is to keep the person awake by moving the jaws around which can include grinding the teeth. Learn more by watching this video.