Tongue-Tie Treatment
in Oklahoma City, OK
A baby who tires at the breast or a child whose speech seems held back can have many causes, and sometimes tongue-tie or lip-tie is one of them. A careful evaluation can show whether the tissue under the tongue or lip is restricting movement and whether a release may help.
Tongue-Tie and Lip-Tie Explained
At Oklahoma Smiles General Dentistry, Dr. James Hulsey is trained in tongue-tie and lip-tie release and evaluates infants and children in Oklahoma City. We are one of a limited number of providers offering this care in the metro area, and it is a natural extension of our pediatric dentistry services for local families.
How Tongue-Tie May Affect Your Child
Tongue-tie, clinically called ankyloglossia, happens when the band of tissue under the tongue is short, thick, or tight and limits how the tongue moves. Lip-tie is similar but involves the tissue that connects the upper lip to the gum. The two can occur together or on their own.
According to a 2023 review in Frontiers in Pediatrics, difficulty breastfeeding is the most common symptom attributed to tongue-tie, although many infants with tongue-tie have no symptoms at all. That is why we look at how the tissue affects feeding or speech instead of relying on appearance alone.
Tongue-Tie and Lip-Tie Release at Oklahoma Smiles
Evaluation and Diagnosis
Dr. Hulsey starts by evaluating the tissue and reviewing your child’s symptoms and history. He assesses how much the tissue restricts movement, discusses how it affects feeding or speech, and explains whether a release is recommended. If it is, he reviews the procedure with you before any treatment begins.
Release Procedure
The release is performed with our Solea laser, which gently releases the restrictive tissue. We explain what to expect before the procedure so you feel prepared.
Recovery and Follow-Up
Dr. Hulsey provides aftercare instructions, including any stretching exercises recommended to help prevent the tissue from reattaching. We schedule a follow-up visit to check healing and answer your questions.
Why We Use a Laser for
Tongue-Tie Release
Dr. Hulsey invested in Solea laser technology because it allows minimally invasive procedures that may reduce discomfort and recovery time. For tongue-tie and lip-tie, that means a precise approach to a small area of tissue.
He is trained in tongue-tie procedures, and he recommends a release only when he believes it may make a meaningful difference for your child. Many families also work with a lactation consultant, pediatrician, or speech-language pathologist, and we can share what we find at your evaluation.
Signs You May Want a Tongue-Tie Evaluation
Many babies and children with tongue-tie have no symptoms, but these signs may be worth an evaluation.
- Trouble latching: Babies with a restricted tongue may struggle to keep a seal while feeding.
- Clicking sounds or tiring feeds: Inefficient feeding can leave babies frustrated or gassy.
- Nipple pain for nursing mothers: Ongoing pain or damage can be a sign the baby is not latching well.
- Slow weight gain: Feeding problems can affect growth, so talk with your pediatrician as well.
- Speech or movement concerns: Some older children struggle with sounds like “l,” “r,” and “th,” or have trouble licking, sticking out the tongue, or moving it side to side.
These signs can have other causes, so an evaluation helps sort out what is behind them.
Schedule Your Tongue-Tie Evaluation at Oklahoma Smiles General Dentistry
If you suspect your infant or child has a tongue-tie or lip-tie, the first step is an evaluation with Dr. James Hulsey, who earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. He gives you an honest assessment and recommends a release only when he believes it may help your child.
We see patients of all ages for tongue-tie and lip-tie evaluations, from newborns to older children and adults whose symptoms were never addressed. Contact our office to schedule your evaluation.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Tongue-Tie Treatment
Is laser tongue-tie treatment safe for infants?
Every procedure carries some risk, and Dr. Hulsey reviews the benefits and risks with you before treatment. He evaluates your infant thoroughly first, and we explain the procedure so you feel informed before moving forward.
What is the difference between a frenectomy and a frenotomy?
A frenotomy is a simple release of the tissue, while a frenectomy removes it completely. The right choice depends on the severity of the restriction and the goals of treatment, and Dr. Hulsey explains which approach fits your child before proceeding.
Do all babies with tongue-tie need a release?
No. Many babies with tongue-tie have no symptoms and do not need treatment. We evaluate how the tissue affects feeding or speech and recommend a release only when it may help.
What should I expect after a tongue-tie release?
Dr. Hulsey provides aftercare instructions, which may include stretching exercises to help prevent the tissue from reattaching. We schedule a follow-up visit to check healing and answer your questions.
How much does tongue-tie treatment cost?
Cost depends on the type of release and your child's needs, so we review pricing after your evaluation. We accept HSA and FSA payments and can discuss financing through CareCredit and Cherry.
Does insurance cover tongue-tie treatment?
Coverage varies by plan and by the reason for treatment. We accept Delta Dental, Health Choice, and Cigna, and our team helps you review your insurance benefits before treatment.