Tongue Ties Explained with Orofacial Myofunctional and Oral Health Therapist Mel Van Schelven

As moms, we’re always tuned into our children’s health—but some things aren’t always easy to spot.

In this week’s episode, I’m chatting with Mel Van Schelven, a fellow mom and expert in oral and facial development, about something that can quietly affect feeding, sleep, behavior, and so much more.

Tongue ties.

If you’ve ever had a gut feeling that something’s off – but couldn’t quite put your finger on it – this episode is for you.

Whether you have a baby or your children are much older, Mel gives us so much direction on what to look for and what to do if a tongue tie is suspected.

Mel and I talk about:

• How to assess whether your child has a tongue tie
• Symptoms of tongue ties
• The impact of tongue ties on feeding, health, development, and facial structure
• The importance of airway health on all aspects of health
• Treatment options for tongue ties
• How to correct tongue ties at any age – including adulthood

Mel is a Registered Dental Practitioner (Oral Health Therapist) and Orofacial Myofunctional Therapist with a passion for helping people understand the deeper connections between oral and overall health.
Her journey began in 2011 as a dental assistant, eventually leading to clinical practice and the launch of The Face Place. Driven by curiosity and a desire to answer the “why” behind common dental issues, Mel found her path in orofacial myology—and hasn’t looked back since. Mel is a based in beautiful, sunny Bowen, Queensland, Australia.

Episode Links:

• Say hi to Mel on Instagram 
• Listen to The Face Place Podcast 
• Grab one of Mel’s free guides 
• Watch Mel’s Oral Ties Masterclass for Babies 
• Work with Mel virtually 

• Come say hello to me over on Instagram 
• Grab a copy of my books The Motherhood Reset and Nourished Mama
• Read my Picky Eating Guide