Tongue Tie & Lip Tie Release in Yukon, OK

What Is a Tongue Tie or Lip Tie?

A tongue tie (ankyloglossia) occurs when the strip of tissue connecting the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth — called the lingual frenum — is too short, thick, or tight to allow full range of motion. A lip tie involves a similar restriction of the tissue attaching the upper lip to the gum line. Both conditions are present from birth and can affect feeding, speech, swallowing, and oral development if left untreated.

At Reed Dental Care, Dr. William Reed diagnoses and treats tongue and lip ties for patients in Yukon and across Canadian County. A member of the American Dental Association and the Oklahoma Dental Association, Dr. Reed graduated from the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry in 2010 and brings more than 15 years of clinical experience to every procedure he performs. Tongue and lip tie releases are performed using our DECA soft tissue laser — a precise, minimally invasive approach that reduces discomfort and speeds healing compared to traditional methods.

Who Can Benefit from a Tongue or Lip Tie Release?

Tongue and lip ties are most commonly identified in infants and young children, but they can go undiagnosed into adulthood. The impact varies depending on the severity of the restriction and the age of the patient. Common signs that a release may be beneficial include:

• Infants: Difficulty latching, painful nursing, poor weight gain, excessive gas, or clicking sounds during feeding
• Young children: Speech delays, difficulty pronouncing certain sounds, trouble clearing food from the mouth, or open-mouth breathing
• Older children and adults: Jaw tension, restricted tongue movement, speech challenges, or difficulty with oral hygiene in areas the tongue cannot reach

A release procedure can provide meaningful relief at any age. During your consultation, Dr. Reed will evaluate the degree of restriction and discuss whether a release is appropriate based on the specific symptoms and goals for your child or for yourself.

The DECA Laser Release Procedure

Reed Dental Care performs tongue and lip tie releases using our DECA soft tissue laser. The laser precisely removes the restrictive frenum tissue without scalpels or sutures, and the procedure is typically completed in a single short appointment. Because the laser cauterizes as it works, bleeding is minimal and healing is generally faster than with traditional surgical approaches.

Before any procedure is scheduled, Dr. Reed conducts a thorough evaluation of the tongue and lip attachment, reviews the patient’s history, and discusses what the release is expected to achieve. The goal is always a result that genuinely improves function — not just a procedure for its own sake.

Lactation Consultant Support for Nursing Families

For families whose infants are struggling with breastfeeding due to a tongue or lip tie, Reed Dental Care works with a board-certified lactation consultant who provides guidance before and after the procedure. The release itself is only part of the process — the weeks that follow are equally important for helping the baby relearn proper latch mechanics and tongue movement. Having professional lactation support alongside the dental treatment gives nursing families the best opportunity for a successful outcome.

Schedule Your Tongue Tie or Lip Tie Consultation at Reed Dental Care

Dr. Reed took over this Yukon practice from his childhood dentist, Dr. Alan Mauldin, when Dr. Mauldin retired in 2025. That continuity of care reflects how seriously this practice takes its role in the community. Whether you are a parent whose newborn is struggling to nurse, a parent whose toddler is showing speech delays, or an adult who has lived with restricted tongue movement for years, a consultation at Reed Dental Care is a straightforward first step.

Reed Dental Care is in-network with HealthChoice and Delta Dental Premier, and we offer CareCredit and Cherry financing for patients who need flexible payment options. Visit our finance and insurance page for details. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation.’s lip or tongue is too tight and restrictive. ’s particularly beneficial for babies and young children. ’s increased range of