Surviving vs. Thriving: How Tongue Ties Impact Sleep, Speech & Breathing (w/Dr. Suraj Vatish)[Ep.149]

Episode SummaryDr. Vatish shares his unexpected journey from implant dentistry to becoming a leading practitioner in tongue tie releases and airway-based dentistry. The conversation covers diagnosis across age groups, the role of CO2 laser in treatment, the critical importance of myofunctional therapy, and the ongoing debate around evidence-based medicine in this emerging field.Key Topics & ConceptsTongue tie diagnosis across age groups — From infant nursing and latching difficulties to speech issues in toddlers, bruxism and sleep apnea in adults, and why posterior ties are often the most symptomatic despite being called "mild"The three pillars of physiological health — Sleep, breathing, and eating as a diagnostic framework; the critical difference between surviving and thrivingCO2 laser and modern release techniques — How laser technology, suturing for primary tension healing, and pre-/post-operative myofunctional therapy transformed outcomes compared to traditional scissors or diode approachesMyofunctional therapy is essential, not optional — Why releasing a tongue tie without concurrent therapy can make things worse; the personal trainer analogy for setting realistic patient expectations on duration and intensityInterdisciplinary team care — Orthodontists, myofunctional therapists, speech therapists, osteopaths, lactation consultants, and ENTs working together; why no single monotherapy solves airway problemsEvidence-based medicine beyond RCTs — The parachute analogy; Sackett's triangular epistemology of research, clinical experience, and patient values; why absence of evidence is not evidence of absenceLINKSHappy Kids Dental Chelsea: https://happykidsdental.co.uk/ American Smile: https://www.americansmile.co.uk/ Instagram: @DrSVatishDDSJoin The DOC Community on Facebook for more great content and discussions: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1Cb9rkQVde/Check out the DOC CE Courses: https://theorthocoach.com/ce-courses/Enjoyed this episode? Share it with a colleague, tag us on social media, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Every share helps fellow clinicians discover conversations that can change the way they practice — and ultimately, change patients' lives.