

Tethered oral tissues occur when the connective tissue under the tongue, lip, or inside the cheek is unusually tight or restrictive. This can limit movement, affect feeding and speech, and interfere with proper oral-facial development.
Depending on severity and symptoms, oral ties may contribute to:
Difficulty breastfeeding or bottle feeding
Speech challenges or unclear speech
Picky eating, gagging, or food refusal
Dental crowding or altered facial growth
Mouth breathing
Sleep disruptions
Jaw tension or headaches
Airway restriction
Because oral ties impact function—not just appearance—an evaluation from an experienced provider is essential.

Shallow latch
Clicking while nursing
Long feeding sessions
Milk leakage
Reflux or gassiness
Poor weight gain
Maternal nipple pain

Difficulty transitioning to solids
Picky eating
Speech delays
Mouth breathing
Snoring or restless sleep
Dental crowding

Jaw or neck tension
Tongue fatigue while speaking
TMJ discomfort
Sleep or airway issues
Orthodontic relapse
Dr. Coleman is well-known across the United States for her experience treating oral ties. She lectures nationally and partners closely with other healthcare providers to ensure each patient receives thorough, individualized care.
As both a dentist and a mother of children with oral ties, Dr. Coleman brings empathy, clarity, and firsthand insight to every patient she treats.


During your visit Dr. Coleman will consider oral mobility, feeding function, speech and
swallowing patterns, tongue and lip posture, airway and growth and facial development.

Dr. Coleman collaborates with other healthcare providers (speech language pathologists, lactation consultants, occupational/physical therapists, chiropractors, other dentists and dental specialists, and MDs/DOs)

Intraoral photographs
Thorough functional assessment of oral mobility
Discussion of procedure and aftercare instructions

When indicated, Dr. Coleman uses a dental laser to perform a precise relsease of the restrictive tissue. Her approach focuses on function, comfort, and long-term improvement.

Treatment may include:
Functional exercises (as appropriate)
Follow-up visits when necessary
Collaboration with other healthcare providers.


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A functional exam is necessary—symptoms vary from patient to patient.
Dr. Coleman uses gentle techniques and prioritizes comfort throughout treatment.
No. A release is recommended only when function is impacted.
With proper aftercare and healing support, recurrence is rare.
Coverage varies, but we will help you submit any needed documentation.
If you're concerned about breastfeeding challenges, speech development, airway issues, or oral function, we’re here to help.
Call our Midtown OKC office to schedule a consultation with Dr. Coleman.
Tuesdays-Thursdays: 8:00am-–5:00pm
Mondays & Fridays by Appointment Only
Closed on weekends
