Tongue training

Appropriate motion and strength of the tongue are vital for eating, swallowing, and breathing. Tongue motion plays a fundamental role in the development of oral and facial structures, as insufficient tongue motion may cause many body malfunctions.[4][5][6]

Many tongue malfunctions are not diagnosed at the newborn stage, which can have significant consequences in later life, such as:[7][8][9][10]

• Breastfeeding difficulties
• Palate abnormalities
• Colic
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease
• Altered breathing patterns
• Altered sleep patterns resulting in poor sleep quality
• Sleep apnea
• Swallowing difficulties
• Otitis / Ear Infection
• Impaired speech
• Postural issues
• Neck pain
• Dental issues
• TMJ problems

Historically, in many cultures, physicians have performed tongue releases for babies with significant benefits.[11][12][13][14] Various protocols exist for diagnosing and treating tongue malfunctions.

The protocol depends on the caregiver's profession and the patient's age.[1][14]

Studies show that passive and active tongue exercises are required to improve tongue motion. Tongue training is an encouragement or neuromuscular re-education, which helps strengthen tongue muscle. This is critical for a positive prognosis post-frenectomy.[9][8][1]

It is now standard that when a sub-functional tongue is diagnosed, even in infants, the caregiver recommends tongue exercises, before a referral for a frenectomy, as well as after the procedure. This conditions the baby and the parent/caretaker, and begins to "fire and wire the muscles to help overall tone and strength” of the tongue.[9]

In addition to the standard tongue training protocol for a diagnosed sub-functional tongue using methods and tools enable comfortable, pleasant and practical tongue training, lead caregivers recommend that each newborn receive a tongue training of two weeks accompanied by professional guidance.