Tongue tie, or ankyloglossia, is often discussed in the context of infants and breastfeeding difficulties. But what many parents don’t realize is that tongue tie can persist into childhood, teenage years, and even adulthood if not treated. For older children and teens, the condition can contribute to challenges with speech, orthodontic stability, swallowing, and even self-confidence.
In this post, we’ll explore how tongue tie presents in school-aged children and teenagers, the potential consequences of leaving it untreated, and what treatment options exist for this age group.
While many tongue ties are caught in infancy, mild or moderate restrictions may go unnoticed until a child is older. Why?
The result? Some children struggle for years before a proper diagnosis.
If you suspect your child may have a tongue tie, here are common signs to look for:
If tongue tie persists into adolescence, the challenges can extend beyond speech. Some of the consequences include:
An evaluation for tongue tie in older children typically involves:
At Colorado Tongue Tie, we use state-of-the-art CO₂ laser technology for precise diagnosis and treatment.
The good news is—it’s not too late. Treatment can still provide significant benefits, even in adolescence.
Together, these approaches help children achieve lasting results.
Recovery for older children and teens is generally quick, but therapy support is key to long-term success. Common recovery steps include:
Most families notice improvements in speech clarity, chewing, and even sleep quality within weeks to months after treatment.
Parents often ask, “Is it too late to treat tongue tie in my teenager?” The answer is no. While earlier treatment may prevent some complications, older children and teens can still experience life-changing benefits from release and therapy.
1. Can tongue tie cause speech problems in teenagers?
Yes. Even mild restrictions can make it difficult to produce certain sounds, such as “r,” “l,” “s,” or “th.” Many teens experience clearer, easier speech after treatment combined with speech therapy.
2. Is it too late to fix tongue tie in older children?
No. Tongue tie can be treated successfully at any age, including adolescence and adulthood. Older children often see improvements in speech, eating, and oral posture after treatment.
3. What’s the recovery time for tongue tie surgery in teens?
Recovery is usually quick—most patients return to normal eating and speaking within a few days. However, ongoing myofunctional and speech therapy exercises are recommended to ensure long-term success.
4. Can untreated tongue tie cause orthodontic problems?
Yes. A restricted tongue can interfere with proper tongue posture, which supports dental alignment. This may lead to orthodontic relapse or challenges with bite stability.
5. Will my child need therapy after a tongue tie release?
In most cases, yes. Myofunctional and/or speech therapy ensures the tongue adapts to its new mobility, improving results and preventing reattachment.
If your child or teen struggles with speech clarity, orthodontic relapse, mouth breathing, or difficulty chewing, tongue tie may be the hidden culprit. The good news? It’s never too late to seek help.
At Colorado Tongue Tie, we specialize in diagnosing and treating tongue tie at all ages, using advanced technology and collaborative care to ensure the best outcomes.
👉 Ready to find answers? Schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward clarity, confidence, and healthier function.
At Colorado Tongue Tie, our goal is to support the well-being of families by addressing restricted oral tissues (ROTs). We cater to patients across all ages, from infants to adults, with an understanding of the diverse needs at each life stage. Our treatments, utilizing cool laser technology, are designed to be as efficient and comfortable as possible. We're dedicated to providing a caring environment, recognizing that each patient's journey towards better oral health is unique.