Do Tongue-ties Cause Speech Delay?
While tongue-ties can contribute to speech difficulties, it's important to understand that they are not always the cause. Some children with tongue-ties experience normal speech development, while others may have difficulties pronouncing some sounds.
Tongue-ties can potentially affect speech by hindering tongue movements necessary for clear articulation of sounds. These difficulties may manifest in a variety of ways, such as difficulty with certain sounds (e.g., "d," "t," or "s") or less clear pronunciation (referred to as speech intelligibility) which makes it harder for other people to understand what a child is saying. However, it's crucial to remember that every child's speech development is unique, and not all speech delays can be attributed to tongue-ties.
The impact of tongue-ties and their release on speech has been the subject of ongoing research. Let's take a look at some recent findings:
-According to a research study by Melong et al. (2021), the majority of children referred for speech concerns related to ankyloglossia (tongue-tie) had speech errors that were appropriate for their age - meaning their speech errors weren’t likely caused by their tongue-tie.
-Similarly, a study by Salt et al. (2020) advises against tongue-tie revisions solely to prevent speech problems. The research has not yet provided conclusive evidence that tongue-tie releases improve speech production and age appropriate speech errors may resolve on their own.
-In cases where tongue-tie releases are recommended for speech concerns, it is advisable to consider trying speech therapy before opting for surgery. Providing children with speech therapy may help them learn to pronounce sounds without relying on surgery (Messener et al., 2020).
-Additionally, incorporating myofunctional exercises (specific exercises to strengthen the tongue and other facial muscles) after tongue-tie release has shown functional improvements in speech, feeding, and sleep for children (Baxter et al., 2020).
Understanding Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMD)
Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders encompass a variety of issues related to the function of the facial and oral muscles. These disorders can manifest in several ways, including:
-Tongue Thrusting : The tongue pushes against or between the teeth during speech, swallowing, or at rest, leading to misarticulated sounds and dental issues.
-Open Mouth Posture: Persistent open mouth resting posture can cause speech difficulties and affect facial aesthetics.
-Incorrect Swallow Patterns: Inefficient swallowing patterns can interfere with speech clarity and lead to digestive issues.
-Nasal Speech: Abnormal resonance or nasal quality in speech due to improper muscle function.
Identifying and addressing these dysfunctions early through OMT can prevent long-term complications and significantly improve speech.
World Kindness Day is November 13th
Here are 10 Random Acts Of Kindness For Kids:
1. Clean Your Room Without Being Asked
2. Let Someone Have A Turn Before You
3. Help Someone Struggling With Homework
4. Smile At Everyone You See Today
5. Leave A Kind Note For Your Teacher
6. Be Caught Being Kind
7. Ask Someone Playing Alone To Play With You
8. Pick Up Trash In Your Neighborhood
9. Only Let Kind Words Out
10. Pick A Few Toys To Donate
November Crafts:
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