Achieving Good Oral Health: A Guide
Good oral health comes from combining consistent daily habits at home, making smart food choices, and partnering with your dentist for regular family dental care. […]
Improving Comfort, Eating, and Oral Function from the Start
At Hometown Dental, we provide laser frenectomies to release restrictive oral tissues that affect feeding, speech, and growth. Our primary focus is on infants, though we also care for older children and adults who can undergo the procedure without deep sedation.
Using the Solea laser, we perform tongue- and lip-tie releases efficiently and precisely, minimizing discomfort and supporting faster healing. This approach allows us to achieve effective outcomes for both infants and families in a safe, controlled environment.
If you think your child may have a tongue- or lip-tie, schedule a consultation to see how a frenectomy can help.
What Is a Frenum or Frenulum?
A frenum (or frenulum) is a small band of tissue that connects parts of the mouth, such as the tongue to the floor of the mouth or the lips to the gums. Most of the time, these tissues function normally.
However, when a frenum is too short, tight, or thick, it can limit movement and cause a tongue-tie (ankyloglossia) or lip-tie. This restriction can interfere with normal feeding, swallowing, speech development, and oral growth.
When a Tie Becomes a Problem
A tight or restrictive frenum can cause functional challenges, especially for infants and young children. These may include:
For infants:
- Difficulty latching during breastfeeding
- Clicking or losing suction while feeding
- Prolonged or painful feeding sessions
- Poor weight gain or frustration during feeding
For older children and adults:
- Speech articulation concerns
- Difficulty eating certain foods
- Mouth breathing or airway restriction
- Tension in the jaw or neck
- Orthodontic or growth issues related to tongue position
How a Frenectomy Helps
A frenectomy is a minor procedure that releases the tight or restrictive tissue. Using the Solea laser, we can gently separate the fibers that limit movement without scalpels or sutures.
Benefits of Solea laser frenectomy:
- Minimal bleeding and swelling
- Quick procedure, often completed in seconds
- Reduced discomfort during and after treatment
- Faster healing compared to traditional methods
- No need for general anesthesia in most cases
After the release, your child’s tongue or lip can move freely, improving feeding efficiency, comfort, and long-term oral development.
What to Expect After the Procedure
Healing and proper movement depend on gentle, consistent aftercare. We provide detailed instructions for parents and caregivers, including stretching exercises to prevent reattachment.
Watch this short video to learn more about post-procedure care and stretches.
Collaborative Care and Referrals
We often work with lactation consultants, myofunctional therapists, speech pathologists, and physicians to ensure each patient receives complete, coordinated care.
If you are a healthcare provider looking to refer a patient for a frenectomy consultation, please use our Referral Form below.
Helping Families Thrive from the Start
Frenectomies can make a significant difference in comfort, feeding, and development not just for infants but for patients of all ages. Our team is here to provide education, compassionate care, and ongoing support every step of the way.
If you think you or your child may benefit from a frenectomy, we invite you to book a consultation with our team.
Our Location
Visit Us
We’re conveniently located in lovely Okotoks, across from Westmount School near the Tucker Parkway.
Our Address
- Suite 1021, 200 Southridge Drive
- Okotoks, AB T1S 0N8
Contact Us
- Phone: 403-982-3100
- Fax: 403-982-3099
- Email: [email protected]
Clinic Hours
- Monday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Thursday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Friday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Saturday: By Appointment
- Sunday: Closed
Our Google Reviews
Our Blog
Keep up-to-date with the latest advancements in dentistry. Read our blog to learn more about oral health, cosmetic dentistry, whitening, and more.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
With proper care, a dental crown can last anywhere from five to 20 years or even longer. […]
What Is the Canadian Dental Care Plan? [Updated for 2025/2026]
Managing your family’s budget while keeping everyone’s smile healthy can be a balancing act. At Hometown Dental, the team understands this challenge. You may have heard about the federal program designed to help with dental costs, the Canadian Dental Care Plan. The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) is a government program that offers some dental […]
What Is Proper Dysport Aftercare?
Proper Dysport aftercare involves a few simple adjustments in the first 24 hours, such as staying upright and avoiding strenuous activity, to support your results. […]
How to Avoid a Root Canal
The most effective way to reduce the likelihood that you’ll need a root canal is a combination of consistent daily habits, protecting your teeth from injury, and attending regular dental check-ups. […]
How Long Does a Cavity Filling Last?
On average, cavity fillings last between 5 and 15 years, though some can last even longer with proper maintenance and regular dental check-ups. […]
What Happens During a Dental Hygiene Visit?
A typical hygiene appointment includes a few key steps: a clinical exam, scaling, root planing if needed, polishing, and fluoride treatment. […]
Dysport vs. Botox: Which Is Right For You?
While both are injectable neuromodulators derived from botulinum toxin and work by relaxing the muscles that cause wrinkles, Dysport tends to spread more and work faster, while Botox offers more precision for smaller treatment zones. […]
How Long Does Dysport Last?
Most people find that Dysport lasts about 3 to 4 months, but it can be longer depending on individual factors like metabolism, muscle movement, and treatment area. […]
Best Invisalign Alternatives for Straighter Teeth
SureSmile stands out as one of the best Invisalign alternatives for straighter teeth thanks to its comfort, affordability, and effectiveness. […]
How Long After Teeth Whitening Can I Eat Normally?
You can typically return to eating your regular diet within 24 to 48 hours after teeth whitening. However, there are certain foods or drinks that you may want to avoid to help preserve your results. […]
YOU DON’T HAVE TO FLOSS ALL YOUR TEETH…JUST THE ONES YOU WANT TO KEEP!
Have you ever had a toothache?If you have, you probably don’t want to have another one.If you haven’t, you really don’t ever want one! In that case, let’s talk about oral health, more specifically hygiene and prevention. YOUR DIET AND YOUR TEETH Let’s start with diet. Yup, you read that right! Diet is a huge factor […]
Can TMJ Cause Tooth Pain?
TMD pain can cause toothaches, but it’s different from what people normally feel when it comes to tooth pain. Because the TMJ is located near so many different muscles, nerve endings, ligaments, and more, pain in the joint can often radiate out and cause what’s called “referred pain.” This can make it difficult to tell whether you’re dealing with tooth and face pain from your teeth themselves or TMJ pain. […]
Do You Need a Crown After a Root Canal?
If you want to protect your tooth and keep it strong for years to come, a crown might be the finishing touch you need. However, not every situation calls for a crown. […]
What Is the Best Age to Treat Tongue Ties?
Although tongue ties can be treated at any age, early intervention often leads to more seamless and effective outcomes. […]
How Long Does It Take Dysport to Work?
Dysport typically begins to work within 2 to 3 days, with full results visible after 10 to 14 days. […]
How to Straighten Teeth Without Braces
Here’s how to straighten teeth without braces:
-Clear aligners: Discreet and removable plastic trays.
-Retainers: Maintain and make minor adjustments to tooth alignment.
-Veneers: Cosmetic fixes for minor imperfections.
-Dental bonding: A quick solution for slight gaps or crooked teeth. […]
Are Teeth Considered Bones?
There are 206 bones in the human body, yet, when discussing oral health, many people assume teeth are simply another type of bone. After all, they’re both hard, white, and crucial to our overall health. But are teeth truly considered bones? The short answer is no. While teeth and bones share some similarities, they are […]
Can You Brush Your Teeth Too Much?
Brushing your teeth is a daily routine. Most people follow it without thought—after all, we all learned it from a young age! However, regular brushing is key to maintaining a healthy smile. But what if this habit could be done to excess, eventually leading to oral health issues? You can brush your teeth too much, […]
Can Gum Recession Be Reversed?
Many common dental issues are preventable—as long as you have the right habits and knowledge. Taking care of your teeth is often much easier than you think, but it does require a proactive approach. But what if you’re already dealing with a condition like gum recession? Can this be reversed, or is it permanent? Gum […]
When to Stop Using Gauze After Tooth Extraction & Other Common Queries
Dental procedures can be uncomfortable experiences for some people, but they’re essential for your dental health. Something like a tooth extraction can prevent infection from spreading and remove decaying teeth. After undergoing a dental procedure such as this, your dentist may advise you to use gauze to control bleeding and promote healing. Gauze is a […]
Can Tooth Decay Be Reversed?
Good oral hygiene isn’t difficult to accomplish, but it can sometimes be hard to stick to good habits when life gets busy. Unfortunately, even when adhering to a dentist-recommended schedule for teeth exams and cleanings, sometimes tooth decay can get away from us. And if left unchecked, this tooth decay can begin causing problems in […]
Overcoming Dental Anxiety: A Guide
Maintaining healthy teeth and gums is essential for both dental health and overall health, yet many people delay or put off seeing the dentist due to anxiety. While dental anxiety is widespread and nothing to be ashamed of, it can be overcome through different techniques like bringing a friend, taking anxiety medication, practicing meditation, or […]
Can You Treat Gum Disease Without A Dentist?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a serious oral health condition that can lead to tooth loss and other significant health issues if left untreated. At Hometown Dental, we understand the importance of addressing gum disease with the proper professional care. While it might be tempting to rely on home remedies to manage […]
Is Invisalign Better Than Braces?
Both Invisalign and braces are two common orthodontic treatments used to straighten and align teeth. For mild to moderate misalignment, some may find that Invisalign is more convenient than braces because they are discreet and removable. However, it’s still important for your dentist to properly assess alignment issues and recommend the right treatment. Understanding Invisalign […]
Is Vaping Bad for Your Teeth?
In recent years, vaping has surged in popularity–particularly among younger demographics–as a perceived safer alternative to traditional cigarette smoking. While the long-term health effects of vaping are still under investigation, one area of concern that warrants immediate attention is oral health. Specifically, how does vaping impact your teeth and gums? Let’s explore the evidence and […]
How Long Does a Dental Cleaning Take?
Dental cleaning and exams may take up valuable time in a day, but they’re critical for good oral health for years to come. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer for how long a dental cleaning takes because there are so many variables, but the average cleaning takes between 30 and 60 minutes. One thing to remember […]
How to Floss with a Permanent Retainer
Flossing can pose some challenges, but you can use threaders, interdental brushes, or water flossing to maintain good oral hygiene with a permanent retainer. […]
Does Teeth Whitening Damage Enamel?
Many people strive for a bright, white smile. Fortunately, with the rise of teeth-whitening treatments like the Zoom whitening offered at Hometown Dental, achieving a bright and shining smile is easier than ever. But there’s an important question worth asking: Does teeth whitening damage enamel? Teeth whitening is typically safe when performed by an experienced […]
Can a Toothache Cause a Headache?
If you’ve ever had a toothache that somehow made your head ache, know that it’s not just bad luck. Your toothache could radiate through your jaw and facial muscles to become the sneaky cause behind that unwelcome headache. Nothing ruins your day like pain, and it could be a sign of something that requires immediate […]
What Is Solea Laser?
For many people, dental anxiety can turn what should be routine oral care into a source of distress. While one option people turn to is sedation dentistry, the Solea dental laser can be a unique way to reduce your family’s discomfort during a procedure. In some cases, you may not even need an anesthetic. The […]
Tooth Stains Vs. Cavities
Cavities are no fun, and they can lead to serious problems with your teeth and gums if you aren’t careful. While a dentist can treat a cavity, cavities can often be easier to prevent than to treat. If you’ve ever noticed a toothache or seen a discoloured spot on your teeth, you might have wondered: […]
Is Sleep Apnea Hereditary?
Sleep apnea is a disorder that results in breathing pauses while you sleep. Surprisingly, your dentist can help with breathing issues like sleep apnea. Several factors can increase your risk of developing sleep apnea. While central sleep apnea is not inherited, obstructive sleep apnea is hereditary. What Is Sleep Apnea? Sleep apnea presents with interrupted […]
Everything to Know About Smoking After a Tooth Extraction
Smoking can be a tough habit to quit, but it’s crucial to grasp the risks linked to smoking after a tooth extraction. Understanding these risks can help you make an informed decision about your oral health and avoid the need for restorative dental care or emergency dental care in the future. You should avoid smoking […]
Why to See Your Dentist for Botox
Botox treatments have become increasingly popular for their cosmetic and anti-aging benefits. While it’s often associated with beauty clinics and medical spas, there’s another group that can provide Botox: dentists. But why should you see a dentist for Botox instead of another clinic? Dentists are trained in the complex anatomy of the face, which is […]
How Long Does a Filling Take?
Dental fillings help repair teeth, significantly improving their look and function. While fillings have traditionally required noisy drills that patients sometimes find uncomfortable and time-consuming, modern technology has revolutionized the process. Thanks to innovative advancements like Solea laser technology, you can get a dental filling and be in and out of your dentist’s office in […]
Suresmile Vs Invisalign: What Are the Differences
When it comes to straightening teeth, you’ve likely heard of a familiar brand before—Invisalign. While Invisalign is well known, it isn’t your only option. SureSmile can help improve your smile by shifting your teeth into place. If you’re debating between SureSmile and Invisalign, what are their differences? A Difference in Price & Treatment Timeline There […]
How Long Do Veneers Last?
You no longer have to be a Hollywood celebrity to have bright, nearly flawless teeth. Thanks to advancements in dental technology, veneers have become popular aesthetic options for people from all walks of life. Veneers are thin, custom-made shells bonded to the front surface of your teeth to improve their colour, shape, or size. The […]
Can a Chipped Tooth Heal Itself?
If you’ve ever had a chipped tooth, you likely know how uncomfortable and unsettling it can be. But can a chipped tooth heal itself? No, a chipped tooth cannot heal on its own. If you experience tooth damage, you should see your dentist as soon as possible to get treatment. Dental treatment is essential for […]
Do I Have Sleep Apnea?
Many people don’t necessarily associate sleeping well with dentistry, but dentists can be essential to determine if you have sleep apnea. You may have heard of sleep apnea before, but you may not be entirely sure what it is or whether you have it. Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that may affect not […]
How Long Do Dentures Last?
If you or someone you know has missing teeth, your dentist or doctor may recommend dentures as a replacement. As an artificial replacement for missing teeth and gums, dentures can be an excellent option for retaining your ability to speak and eat normally. There are two types of dentures: complete and partial. Complete dentures are […]
Nervous About Your Dentist Appointment? You Have Options
If you’re experiencing dental anxiety, you’re not alone. People of all ages struggle with apprehension at dentist appointments, which can lead to patients postponing visits and potentially worsening dental conditions. Now, it’s possible to face dental anxiety head-on with options like sedation dentistry and Solea laser dentistry. Once you try alternative treatment styles, you can […]
How Long Can You Leave A Cavity Untreated?
Your oral health is an important part of your overall health, and it’s essential to maintain regular dental exams and cleanings with your dental professional. Building good dental health habits for the whole family goes a long way in preserving your smile. Routine oral assessments and cleanings help prevent cavities and other issues and ensure […]
Can You Have Sleep Apnea Without Snoring
Identifying Sleep Apnea Getting a good night’s sleep is essential. But when sleep apnea affects your rest, you can experience uncomfortable, challenging symptoms. About 858,900 Canadian adults have been diagnosed with sleep apnea, and more than 1 in 4 adults have reported symptoms or risk factors associated with obstructive sleep apnea. While most people might […]
How Long Does Zoom Whitening Last?
Nice looking teeth are more than just about physical appearance. In many cases, it’s also a matter of self confidence. That’s why teeth whitening procedures are a hit, whether at-home or in-office. People often start with an at-home treatment such as whitening toothpaste or mouthwash for convenience. Unfortunately, the stains on our teeth sometimes become […]
Dr. JJ’s Top 5 Dentist Approved Stocking Stuffers
The countdown is on to my favourite holiday of the year – Christmas! The best part, of course, is getting together with the people I love most, sharing in family traditions, enjoying a wonderful meal, and basking in the glow of a brightly decorated Christmas tree. All that brings back wonderful memories from my childhood. […]
Honouring our military veterans and healthcare heroes
Tomorrow is Remembrance Day, and I would like to take this opportunity to honour the sacrifices that military people have made – and continue to make – by putting their duty and country ahead of themselves. In what might be seen as a break with tradition, I also want to honour the health care heroes […]
Grateful and smiling for all that is good in our lives
We all hope you had an excellent Thanksgiving! The Hometown Dental crew and I certainly did, and we agreed that this year, the holiday felt more significant than ever.These days, I see more folks trading in their warm smiles for perpetual jaw-clenching frowns, despite our attempts to distract patients with Netflix while they’re in for […]
WE ARE HIRING DENTAL HYGIENISTS! HERE’S WHY YOU SHOULD JOIN OUR AMAZING TEAM
You can finally stop scrolling through dental hygienist job postings because your dream job is right here at Hometown Dental! Our amazing team is seeking all passionate, skilled, and experienced dental hygienists to join our war on cavities and gum disease. If that sounds like YOU, let us tell you about who we are so […]
HOMETOWN DENTAL, HOW IT ALL BEGAN.
I’ve been asked the question many times, “Why did you decide to become a dentist?” I can’t say it was initially a childhood dream but part of the reason does stem back to my first experiences at the dentist as a child. I grew up in Mazeppa, just east of High River with my three […]
DO YOU NEED BETTER SLEEP?
Did you know that 1 in 4 people suffer from Sleep Apnea? It is an under-diagnosed medical issue (80% of people with sleep apnea are undiagnosed) that can have a lot of medical consequences if left untreated. It is more than just snoring or not having a good night’s sleep…although those can be signs of Obstructive […]
WONDERING ABOUT DENTURES? MEET TATEM – OUR DENTURES SPECIALIST
We’re thrilled to welcome Tatem Anderson to our team here at Hometown Dental, where he’s been making beautiful smiles since December of 2020. Tatem is our specialist in dentures, providing everything you need related to dentures. Originally from Lethbridge, Alberta, Tatem has been a long-time dental professional. He first entered the dental field when a family […]
Overcoming Dental Fears: 5 Reasons Hometown Dental is the Right Place for You
From the moment you feel a twinge in your tooth, you’re filled with dread. Then, you finally set up the appointment. When the day arrives, you wake up with knots in your stomach. I understand! Lots of people may feel nervous or anxious about visiting the dentist. In fact, up to 40% of Canadians have reported […]
FILLINGS AND RESTORATIONS
AT HOMETOWN DENTAL IN OKOTOKS, WE OFFER DENTAL FILLINGS AND RESTORATIONS Tooth decay or cavities are most commonly treated with direct restorations which are commonly referred to as fillings. Tooth decay is the result of oral bacteria in plaque converting sugar from our diets to acid. Plaque is constantly forming and is very sticky to […]
CROWNS & BRIDGES
LEARN MORE ABOUT DENTAL CROWNS AND BRIDGES WHAT IS A CROWN? When a tooth has been compromised structurally or esthetics needs improvement, a crown or cap can be placed on the tooth. The tooth is first anesthetized and then prepared with a handpiece to reduce the size of the sides and the top of the […]
PORCELAIN VENEERS
LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR PORCELAIN VENEERS COSMETIC DENTAL SERVICES Porcelain veneers are a restorative option for front teeth where aesthetic improvement is desired. They can improve colour, shape and position of the front teeth. Veneers at Hometown Dental are made out of porcelain in the same way that crowns are, however the difference is they […]
ENDODONTICS – ROOT CANALS
Root canal treatment or endodontic therapy is the process of cleaning and disinfecting the pulp chambers and canals inside a tooth when there has been injury, infection or damage to the pulp (nerve and blood vessels). This can result from deep decay that infects the pulp with bacteria or trauma that damages the tooth and […]
Oral Surgery
LEARN MORE ABOUT ORAL SURGERY OPTIONS AND OUR PROCESS Oral surgery might be recommended at times when teeth need to be removed. Teeth often require removal if there is extensive decay or fracture of the tooth and it cannot be restored or preserved. If a tooth requires root canal therapy but a patient choses not […]
Dentures
Dentures are dental appliances that replace missing teeth and can be taken in and out of the mouth. Depending on the number of teeth missing, either partial dentures or complete dentures can be fabricated. There are also options for attaching dentures to implants to provide further stability. Partial Dentures When multiple teeth are missing in […]
SEDATION DENTISTRY
At Hometown Dental in Okotoks, we understand that going to the dentist can make patients nervous or apprehensive. For those patients, we offer two types of conscious sedation: oral and inhalation (as well as a combination of the two). Sedation is a process used to create a relaxed and calm state through the use of […]
INVISALIGN & SURESMILE ORTHODONTICS
AT HOMETOWN DENTAL IN OKOTOKS DENTAL, WE OFFER INVISALIGN AND SURESMILE ORTHODONTICS SERVICES When teeth are misaligned, crowded, crooked and/or don’t fit together correctly, orthodontics (braces) can be used to correct these problems. Invisalign or Suresmile is an esthetic option to treat certain malocclusion cases. Instead of the traditional metal brackets and wires, a series […]
EMERGENCY DENTISTRY
LOOKING FOR EMERGENCY DENTISTRY IN OKOTOKS? HOMETOWN DENTAL IS HERE TO HELP! At Hometown Dental, we understand dental emergencies occur. Teeth can be damaged or fall out due to accidents and sometimes a toothache will spontaneously occur where the pain is unbearable. Even if a crown falls off or a filling falls out, treatment should not […]
FAMILY DENTIST OKOTOKS
LEARN MORE ABOUT HOMETOWN DENTAL’S KID-FRIENDLY DENTAL APPROACH Hometown Dental is a family dental practice which means kids make up a significant portion of our clinic. Our sensitive, fun, kid-friendly approach can help create a comfortable experience at the dentist and establish great long-term oral health. It is very important to start seeing children early […]
Mouth Guards
AT HOMETOWN DENTAL IN OKOTOKS DENTAL, WE OFFER MOUTH GUARDS SERVICES Night Guards For people who experience tooth wear from grinding/clenching their teeth at night or have TMD (temporomandibular joint dysfunction), a night guard or bite splint is a very beneficial appliance. It can help alleviate symptoms and prevent further damage to the teeth and […]
TEETH WHITENING
AT HOMETOWN DENTAL IN OKOTOKS DENTAL, WE OFFER TEETH WHITENING SERVICES Teeth whitening or “bleaching” is a popular esthetic service at Hometown Dental. We offer in-office “Iveri” whitening, “Zoom” whitening as well as the take-home whitening kit option. Teeth whitening is done when a patient desires a brighter, more esthetic smile. The peroxide-based solutions can […]
HYGIENE CLEANING
AT HOMETOWN DENTAL IN OKOTOKS, ALBERTA WE OFFER HYGIENE CLEANING Hometown Dental’s hygienists are an integral part of our team as oral hygiene is extremely important to one’s overall oral health. Gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) and Periodontitis (inflammation of the supporting structures of the tooth) can be prevented with excellent home care and regular […]
Dental Implants
AT HOMETOWN DENTAL IN OKOTOKS, WE OFFER DENTAL IMPLANTS When there are missing teeth in the jaw, dental implants are a great option for replacing them. The titanium implant mimics the root structure of a tooth and is bio-compatible so that the bone actually grows and attaches to it (osseointegration). Understanding Tooth Loss The Dental […]
3 WAYS TO SMILE WITH CONFIDENCE: TEETH WHITENING AT HOMETOWN DENTAL
Do you wish your smile was brighter? It’s a fairly common desire and one I hear in the office all the time. After all, there are so many things that can cause your teeth to become discoloured. From drinks like coffee and red wine to ageing, and genetics, it’s nearly impossible to keep your teeth from […]
- Aesthetics Services
- Veneers
- Teeth Whitening
- Spark Clear Aligners
- Cosmetic Treatments & Services
- Smile Design
- Our Technology
- Solea
- CEREC
- Primeprint
- CBCT
- Digital Scanning
- Sleep Dentistry
- Sleep Dentistry Treatment
- Solea
- Sleep Quiz
- Sleep Apnea Referral Form
-
Hometown Dental
- Suite 1021, 200 Southridge Drive
- Okotoks, AB T1S 0N8
-
P: 403-982-3100
[email protected]
