TOTs Paper: Feeding, Speech and Sleep

By: Baxter, Merkel-Walsh, Baxter, Lashley and Rendell

TOTs Paper: Feeding, Speech and SleepGo to Link

Recent studies suggest that speech, solid feeding, and sleep difficulties may be linked to restricted tongue function. In this study, 37 children with tongue restrictions underwent lingual frenectomies with a CO2 laser, paired with myofunctional exercises. Overall, speech improved in 89%, solid feeding improved in 83%, and sleep improved in 83% of patients as reported by parents.

After tongue-tie releases paired with exercises, most children experience functional improvements in speech, feeding, and sleep. 50% of speech-delayed children produced new words after the procedure (P = .008), 76% of slow eaters ate more rapidly (P < .001), and 72% of restless sleepers slept less restlessly (P < .001). Providers should screen for oral restrictions in children and refer for treatment when functions are impaired.