Restricted Tethered Oral Tissues (RTOTs):
Understanding the Impact on Infants

Recognizing RTOTs in Early Development

Restricted Tethered Oral Tissues (TOTs) refer to conditions like tongue-ties, where the frenum/frenulum (the tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth) is too tight or short. This condition can significantly affect an infant’s growth and development, particularly in nursing and feeding. Dr. Buehler notes, “The biggest telltale sign in infants is a problem with nursing and latching. If Mom is having trouble nursing, get an evaluation. If it hurts Mom to nurse, get an evaluation. If baby shows signs of excess gas, colic-like symptoms, or spitting up after feeding, get an evaluation”. Partnering with Breathe For Foundational Development, we aim to provide comprehensive care and education in managing RTOTs.

Hear From Our Patients

Identifying RTOTs in Infants

Many signs and symptoms can indicate a restriction in tethered oral tissues. While not all ties present the same, being aware of these signs can aid in early detection and intervention.

Babies

Struggling to nurse or use a bottle

Milk leaking from mouth while eating

Clicking noises while eating

Exhibiting slow or poor weight gain

Showing signs of reflux

Colic-like symptoms

Excess gas or fussiness after eating

Moms

Painful nursing

Incomplete breast emptying

Mastitis or clogged ducts

Low milk supply

Cracked or sore nipples

Frustration or disappointment with nursing

Identifying RTOTs in Children

Thorough Evaluation for Accurate Diagnosis

Dr. Buehler emphasizes the importance of a detailed clinical exam and patient history to accurately diagnose a lip- or tongue-tie. She believes in correlating symptoms with clinical signs, understanding that not every frenum constitutes a tie. In her approach, she incorporates a fascial evaluation, recognizing that oral tissues can affect the entire body. This comprehensive method, often involving collaboration with body workers, chiropractors, and craniosacral therapists, ensures a holistic and accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

Gentle and Effective Treatment for Infant RTOTs

Collaborative Care for Comprehensive Treatment

Collaboration with specialists in our community is crucial to patient success. From Lactation Consultants to Cranial Sacral Therapists, this multidisciplinary approach ensures a well-rounded treatment plan that addresses all aspects of RTOTs. Such collaborations are pivotal in providing holistic care that supports every stage of the tongue-tie journey. It is important to note that we are an important piece of the puzzle on the path to wellness, but the most successful treatment is always a team-based collaborative approach.

Supporting the Tongue-Tie Journey

Breathe For Foundational Development focuses on a specialized program aiding those affected by RTOTs. It offers support and resources for individuals of all ages undergoing the tongue-tie journey. This comprehensive initiative is designed to complement the treatment and care provided at our facility, ensuring a well-rounded approach to managing RTOTs.

Restricted Tethered Oral Tissues (RTOTs): Understanding the Impact on Infants