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Tongue-tie and lip-tie can affect feeding, speech, and oral development. At Oklahoma Smiles, Dr. Hulsey offers minimally invasive laser treatment for infants and children in Oklahoma City.
American Dental Association (ADA)
STEP 1: EVALUATION & DIAGNOSIS
Dr. Hulsey begins with a thorough evaluation of the frenum tissue and a review of your child’s symptoms and history. He will assess the degree of restriction, discuss how it is affecting your child’s function, and explain whether a release is recommended. If a release is indicated, he will walk you through the procedure in detail so you feel fully prepared before any treatment begins.
THE TREATMENT PROCESS
Tongue-tie, clinically known as ankyloglossia, is a condition in which the lingual frenum, the band of tissue connecting the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth, is too short, thick, or tight. This restricts the tongue’s range of motion and can interfere with a variety of functions depending on the patient’s age and the severity of the restriction.
Lip-tie refers to a similar condition affecting the labial frenum, the tissue connecting the upper lip to the gum above the front teeth. When this tissue is too tight, it can restrict lip movement and create challenges with breastfeeding, oral hygiene, and spacing of the front teeth. Both tongue-tie and lip-tie can occur together or independently.
Dr. James Hulsey is specifically trained to evaluate and treat tongue-tie and lip-tie in infants and children using Solea laser dentistry. Oklahoma Smiles is one of a limited number of practices in the Oklahoma City metro area offering this specialized care, making it a meaningful resource for local families seeking a diagnosis and a treatment path.
WHAT IS TONGUE-TIE?
Oklahoma Dental Association
Oklahoma City Dental Association
Academy of General Dentistry (AGD)
Helping Oklahomans achieve healthy, beautiful smiles.
OKLAHOMA SMILES
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We believe cost should never stand between you and a healthy smile. Oklahoma Smiles accepts most major insurance plans and offers flexible financing to fit a variety of budgets.
Our team is happy to help you understand your benefits and explore payment options that work for you. Whether you’re using insurance or paying out of pocket, we’re committed to making quality dental care accessible for every patient in the Oklahoma City area. We also accept HSA and FSA payments.
At Oklahoma Smiles General Dentistry, we offer a full range of dental services for patients of all ages in Oklahoma City. Whether you’re coming in for a routine exam, exploring cosmetic options, or need restorative or specialty care, our team is equipped to help. Dr. James Hulsey brings advanced technology and genuine, patient-centered attention to every service we provide, so you always feel like a priority, not just a patient.
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Dr. James Hulsey is a dedicated Oklahoma City dentist committed to delivering exceptional, patient-centered care. With a focus on advanced technology and compassionate communication, he creates a comfortable experience that helps patients achieve lasting oral health with confidence.
Dr. Hulsey’s approach is built on trust, transparency, and high-quality treatment tailored to each individual’s needs. He takes time to thoroughly explain procedures so every patient feels informed, at ease, and empowered in their care decisions, from their very first visit.
DR. JAMES HULSEY
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STEP 2: LASER RELEASE PROCEDURE
The frenectomy or frenotomy is performed using the Solea CO2 laser, which precisely releases the restrictive tissue without the need for scalpels or sutures. The laser cauterizes as it works, which significantly reduces bleeding. The procedure is quick, typically completed in a matter of minutes, and the laser’s precision minimizes discomfort and tissue trauma compared to traditional surgical techniques.
STEP 3: RECOVERY & FOLLOW-UP
Because the Solea laser promotes faster tissue healing than traditional methods, most patients experience a quicker and more comfortable recovery. Dr. Hulsey will provide detailed aftercare instructions, including any stretching exercises recommended to prevent reattachment of the tissue. He will schedule a follow-up visit to confirm healing is progressing well and address any questions or concerns.
Traditional tongue-tie and lip-tie releases performed with scissors or a scalpel are effective but involve more bleeding, greater tissue trauma, and a longer recovery period. Laser treatment using the Solea CO2 system offers a significantly more precise and gentle alternative. Because the laser seals tissue as it cuts, there is minimal bleeding, and no sutures are required.
Many families seek out laser frenectomy specifically because of the reduced recovery time and the gentler experience for their child. Dr. Hulsey’s Solea LEAP Certification reflects his advanced training and proficiency with the laser system, and his experience with tongue-tie procedures gives families the confidence of working with a provider who performs these releases regularly.
WHY SOLEA LASER?
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TONGUE-TIE TREATMENT AT OKLAHOMA SMILES
✓ Laser frenectomy and frenotomy for tongue-tie and lip-tie
✓ Performed with Solea CO2 laser; no scalpel, no sutures
✓ Minimal bleeding, reduced discomfort, and faster healing
✓ Dr. James Hulsey is Solea LEAP Certified with specialized tongue-tie training
✓ One of a limited number of providers offering this care in Oklahoma City
Mon-Fri: 8AM – 5PM
Sat-sun: Closed
Some Saturday Openings Available by Appointment Only.
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HOURS
LOCATION
Oklahoma Smiles General Dentistry
11320 N Pennsylvania Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73120