Children with ankyloglossia (tongue tie) can have abnormal tongue function, putting them at a disadvantage when it comes to speech and articulation. Furthermore, abnormal tongue posture within the oral cavity increases the likelihood of myofunctional disorders.

The current body of literature surrounding ankyloglossia and speed delay is mixed. The literature base is riddled with retrospective reviews, poor descriptions of surgical intervention, and the lack of standardized grading schemes with respect to articulation. Furthermore, the candidacy for intervention in these instances only involves children with anterior tongue tie. There is a complete lack of investigation surrounding the impact of posterior tongue tie on articulation.

The other area that has inadequately been studied is the impact ankyloglossia has on myofunctional outcomes. There are data now that demonstrate how ankyloglossia is correlated with a vaulted palate and has long term orthodontic consequences. This study aims to demonstrate how release of posterior tongue tie improves lingual strength and posture.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Children ages 5-12 with posterior tongue tie who are undergoing treatment just for ankyloglossia
• Children must already be working with an SLP who has done a speech and myofunctional evaluation

Exclusion Criteria:

• Children undergoing other procedures at the same time as the frenuloplasty (tonsillectomy, adenoidectomy, etc)
• Significant medical comorbidities (cardiovascular, neurological, etc)
• Anterior tongue tie or lip tie
• Previous lingual surgery