Orthodontic treatment is a big investment of time and money. Parents and teens alike celebrate the day braces come off, expecting results to last. But for some, teeth begin shifting back—sometimes only months after treatment ends. Why does this happen?
One hidden factor many don’t consider is tongue tie (ankyloglossia). A restricted tongue can influence how teeth and jaws develop, and without addressing it, orthodontic results may not hold long-term.
The tongue is one of the most powerful muscles in the body. When it rests properly against the roof of the mouth, it helps shape the palate, stabilize the bite, and maintain healthy dental alignment. During swallowing, the tongue should press gently upward, balancing forces in the mouth.
But when tongue movement is restricted:
Over time, this imbalance can cause misalignment and orthodontic relapse.
Braces can align teeth, but they don’t fix underlying muscle function. A tongue tie prevents the tongue from:
As a result, once braces come off, teeth may shift back to where they were before—causing frustration for patients and families.
If you or your child has experienced orthodontic relapse or bite challenges, tongue tie could be part of the cause. Look for these signs:
The good news: addressing tongue tie alongside orthodontics can create lasting, stable results. Treatment may involve:
Together, these approaches treat both the structure and function, ensuring a stable smile for years to come.
We often see patients who had braces in middle school, only to need orthodontics again in high school because of relapse. In many of these cases, a tongue tie was the missing piece. Once released—and with supportive therapy—orthodontic results became far more stable.
1. Can tongue tie cause braces relapse?
Yes. Without proper tongue posture, teeth may shift back after braces or aligners are removed.
2. How do I know if tongue tie is affecting orthodontics?
Signs include relapse after braces, narrow palate, mouth breathing, and persistent speech challenges.
3. Should tongue tie be treated before or after orthodontics?
Ideally, tongue tie release and therapy occur before or during orthodontics to maximize stability and results.
4. Does every child with braces need a tongue tie evaluation?
Not always, but if there’s relapse, open bite, or speech/breathing concerns, an evaluation is highly recommended.
5. Will my child still need a retainer after tongue tie release?
Yes—retainers are still part of standard orthodontic care. However, tongue tie treatment reduces the risk of significant relapse.
If your child’s teeth are shifting after braces, or if orthodontic problems keep returning, tongue tie may be the hidden cause. Braces can align teeth, but without addressing tongue function, results may not last.
At Colorado Tongue Tie, we specialize in identifying and treating tongue tie in collaboration with orthodontists and myofunctional therapists. This comprehensive approach supports lasting results, healthier function, and confident smiles.
👉 Concerned about orthodontic relapse? Schedule a consultation today to explore whether tongue tie treatment can help.
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.