Author: Matthew Hillman

We are excited to welcome Dr Tara Craven to the Smiles Dentistry for Kids team!

Children's dentist, dental check-up, Kids' Dentist, Kids' Health, Pediatric dentist

Children's dentist, dental check-up, Dental Hygiene, Pediatric dentist

Our Father’s Day Message: Dads, You Have a Big Impact on Your Kids’ Healthy Teeth!

When it comes to kids’ health, it seems like most of the information is directed toward moms. It is assumed that moms handle most of the health-related tasks, such as scheduling appointments, preparing food, and managing day-to-day wellness. But we recognize that dads do a lot of unacknowledged and unappreciated work. This Father’s Day, we salute the amazing dads who are doing so much to ensure that their kids enjoy good oral and physical health.

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids in Overland Park, KS, we provide compassionate pediatric dentistry, and we want to make sure that oral health is a positive experience for everyone in the family. As a dad himself, Dr. Matt understands the important role that fathers play in their kids’ health. He can explain how best to fill this role and answer any questions you may have.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact our office.

Involved Dads Promote Better Health

Increasingly, health and sociology experts are becoming more aware of the role that dads play in their kids’ overall wellness. In part, this is due to widespread social trends. For instance, between 2003 and 2007, the number of stay-at-home dads increased by 60%. The majority of stay-at-home parents are still moms. Nonetheless, this number is not insignificant and indicates the importance of fatherhood and its role in child health and development.

Further, one study showed that 30% of moms reported that their child’s father had a positive impact on their children’s oral health. This impact came primarily because dads actively performed dental hygiene for their children, and they promoted a tooth-health diet.

The Power of Example

Any parent knows that kids imitate everything. Although this can be an intimidating thought, it’s actually great when it comes to dental care. When a child sees his dad brushing his teeth, the youngster is more likely to brush his own teeth. And if a little girl sees her daddy going to the dentist, she’s more likely to accept dental visits as a routine part of life.

One unique opportunity for dads involves dental phobia. Very often, dads feel compelled to display fearlessness in front of their children. And if a child expresses fear of the dentist, there’s a temptation to dismiss their anxieties or tell them there’s nothing to be afraid of. What if you let your child know that you feel nervous sometimes, too? Whether you suffer from dental anxiety yourself, or your anxiety comes at other times, when kids see that dads face up to their own fears, it can be an inspiring and lifelong example of courage.

The Role of Diet and Nutrition

Dads are increasingly spending more time in the kitchen, and their food choices can have a tremendous impact on their kids’ dental health. Of course, there are certain notorious causes of cavities (such as candy), but any carbohydrate can lead to tooth decay, especially refined or processed carbs. A balanced diet with plenty of whole grains, lean proteins, dairy, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fat can dramatically reduce the risk of cavities. And, of course, some treats are appropriate in moderation.

Contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids

Happy Father’s Day! Are you ready to schedule an appointment for your child? Contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids today.

Reach us online or call us at (913) 685-9990.

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We are excited to welcome Dr Tara Craven to the Smiles Dentistry for Kids team!

Children's dentist, dental check-up, Kids' Dentist, Kids' Health, Pediatric dentist

Children's dentist, dental check-up, Dental Hygiene, Pediatric dentist

3 Big Myths about Dental Extraction

While it’s never pleasant to be told your child must lose a tooth that’s not supposed to come out, the reality is that dental extraction is much less scary than most people think. Indeed, myths abound surrounding tooth extraction. But when you know the truth about this procedure, it can make the prospect much less daunting both for you and for your child.

Dr. Matt offers conservative and compassionate pediatric dentistry in Overland Park, KS. He only recommends dental extraction when it is absolutely necessary, using our advanced technology to evaluate your child’s tooth and overall dental health. When it is required, he and the team at Smiles Dentistry for Kids do everything in their power to make the procedure easy, quick, and comfortable.

Have you been told your child needs a dental extraction? Wondering about your teen’s wisdom teeth? Contact us to learn more!

Myth #1: Wisdom Teeth Always Need to Come Out.

In the past, wisdom tooth extraction was almost a rite of passage, along with getting your driver’s license and graduating from high school. Today, dentists are much more discerning as they evaluate each individual patient.

Dr. Matt only recommends wisdom tooth extraction if the third molars are causing problems or are likely to do so in the future. If there is not enough room for the teeth to come in, they can cause significant discomfort, and they can upset overall tooth alignment. Wisdom teeth can also become impacted, meaning they are trapped beneath the gums or jawbone.

Myth #2: When Kids Have an Extraction, They Don’t Need a Replacement.

Since your child’s baby teeth will eventually come out anyway, it seems odd to replace an extracted tooth. But those baby teeth serve an important function as placeholders. If the teeth come out too early, it can cause the other teeth to shift, leading to a lifetime of orthodontic problems.

Myth #3: Dental Extraction Will Affect Your Child’s Appearance.

Extraction does not have to affect your child’s appearance at all! Just as there are for adults, a number of highly realistic dental restorations can replace missing teeth. A dental bridge is the most common option, especially for pediatric patients. Bridges are made from porcelain and similar substances, which match both the color and sparkle of dental enamel.

In recent years, dental implants have become a popular method of tooth replacement. But implants are not typically appropriate for pediatric patients since bone growth and development can affect the stability of implants. Typically, boys have a final growth spurt between the ages of 11 and 17, while girls stop growing between the ages of 9 and 15. An oral surgeon can assess whether growth has stopped and whether implants may be suitable.

Of course, if your child has lost a baby tooth, you may not want the hassle and expense of a permanent dental restoration. In these cases, Dr. Matt will usually recommend a spacer. As the name implies, a spacer simply maintains the space left by the extracted tooth. Although it will not blend in like a bridge, it will keep the other teeth from shifting.

Learn More about Tooth Extraction from Your Pediatric Dentist

For more information about dental extraction and other kids’ procedures, contact our office today.

Reach us online or call us directly at (913) 685-9990.

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We are excited to welcome Dr Tara Craven to the Smiles Dentistry for Kids team!

Children's dentist, dental check-up, Kids' Dentist, Kids' Health, Pediatric dentist

Children's dentist, dental check-up, Dental Hygiene, Pediatric dentist

Pediatric Dentistry Mystery: The Tooth Fairy

It truly is a pediatric dentistry mystery, where the Tooth Fairy originated. Throughout history and across the globe, parents have built excitement and anticipation around their children’s loss of primary teeth. Indeed, it is a right of passage when a young child begins to see evidence of their growth. Today, Dr. Matt will share some of the folklore around the Tooth Fairy, her mystery, magic, and wonder. Your children will love this!

The American Tooth Fairy

In 1908, Lillian Brown authored an article in the Chicago Tribune encouraging parents to introduce the Tooth Fairy. As the story went, the Tooth Fairy’s token gift prompted children to allow baby teeth to be pulled without tears. Brown suggested a $.05 exchange for each tooth, left under the child’s pillow to help promote the myth.

The average gift left by the Tooth Fairy today is $3.70 in the US, according to a poll by Visa. Other research by Delta Dental shows that in 1998, average payment of $1.80 has risen to $6.23 in 2023!

Tooth Fairy of the Norse and Vikings

In the 10th Century, Norse parents paid tand-fe, or “tooth fee,” to their children in exchange for lost teeth. Some families would burn or bury a child’s first lost tooth, so he would be spared from hardships later in life. Tradition held that a milk tooth not burned or buried would become cause for an eternal search in the afterlife.

Another belief was that if a witch found a child’s tooth, she would hold power over that child for his lifetime.

Also, Viking warriors wore multiple children’s teeth on jewelry to bring good luck and protection.

The Tooth Mouse of France and Spain

In the 18th Century, French parents told their children of Le Bonne Petite Souris (the Little Mouse). This little critter would leave a coin in exchange for a lost baby tooth. Children placed a lost tooth in their shoes, and the following day voila! Payment appeared in its place.

El Ratoncito Perez, or Perez the Little Mouse, is a similar figure in Spain. Hispanic cultures teach children that El Ratoncito Perez will come at night. He will trade a coin for a tooth left near the child’s bedside.

Other Tooth Children’s Tooth Traditions

Folklore across the globe depicts the “tooth fairy” as a beaver, cat, dog, and squirrel. Some rituals involve throwing lost children’s teeth into the fire, sun, or even between the legs! Parents and children have dropped teeth in mouse holes, placed them in trees, and thrown them over a roof. Stranger still, baby teeth have been purposefully swallowed by the child who lost it, his mother, or a family pet. All of these strange rituals were thought to bring luck, protection, or favor.

We Love the Tooth Fairy!

At Smiles Dentistry 4 Kids, Dr. Matt and our team want your children to enjoy taking great care of their teeth. We help parents and children learn how to brush, floss, and protect baby and permanent teeth from dental disease. Every parent should trust their dentist. We respect the trust our patients and their families place in us. Give us a call in Overland Park at (913) 685-9990 today to schedule your child’s dental appointment.

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We are excited to welcome Dr Tara Craven to the Smiles Dentistry for Kids team!

Children's dentist, dental check-up, Kids' Dentist, Kids' Health, Pediatric dentist

Children's dentist, dental check-up, Dental Hygiene, Pediatric dentist

Essential Tips for New Parents from a Pediatric Dentist

Being a new parent is exciting! But, it can often be challenging. Amidst the joys and responsibilities of parenthood, it’s essential not to overlook your baby’s oral health. Developing good dental habits early on can set the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. That’s why our pediatric dentist in Overland Park, KS, is here to help (read more about Dr. Matt here!).

Is it time to take your little one to visit the dentist? Schedule an appointment with our top-rated pediatric dentist at Smiles Dentistry for Kids by calling (913) 685-9990 now!

Pediatric dentists understand the importance of oral care in infancy and early childhood. In this blog post, we share valuable tips to help new parents ensure that their little ones maintain optimal oral health.

Start Oral Care Early

Many parents hear that oral care should start once their child’s first tooth emerges, but it should actually start before then. After feeding, gently wipe your baby’s gums with a clean, damp cloth or a soft infant toothbrush. This helps remove bacteria and establish a routine that promotes good oral hygiene.

Introduce Fluoride

Fluoride is crucial for developing strong teeth. The mineral binds with calcium and phosphates to form fluorapatite, which helps rebuild weakened tooth enamel. Once your baby’s first tooth appears, consult with your pediatric dentist about starting fluoride supplementation.

Monitor Feeding Practices

Avoid putting your baby to bed with a bottle. High-sugar liquids (like breastmilk, formula, or juice) can lead to infant tooth decay, known as “baby bottle tooth decay.”

Establish a Dental Home

Choosing a pediatric dentist for your child is vital. Start early by scheduling the first dental visit around your baby’s first birthday or when the first tooth begins to appear. A pediatric dentist specializes in infant and child dental care, ensuring a positive experience and offering valuable guidance for parents.

Practice Healthy Feeding Habits

As your baby transitions to solid foods, make nutritious choices that promote dental health, such as:

Fresh fruits and vegetables
Healthy fats, like avocados and dairy products
Whole grains
Lean proteins

Be sure to introduce a variety of textures and flavors to encourage chewing and jaw development.

Encourage Good Oral Hygiene Habits

As your child grows, encourage independent brushing. Supervise their brushing technique until they can do it effectively on their own using small, circular motions across all tooth surfaces for at least two minutes.

Limit Pacifier Use

Pacifiers can provide comfort, but prolonged use may impact dental development. Limit pacifier use after six months to avoid potential oral issues, like misaligned teeth or bite problems.

Bacteria in your mouth can transfer to your baby, increasing the risk of tooth decay. So, avoid sharing utensils, cups, or cleaning pacifiers with your mouth (use clean water instead).

Lead by Example

Let your children witness your commitment to oral health by maintaining your own dental hygiene routine. Brush and floss regularly, visit the dentist for routine check-ups, and prioritize a healthy diet.

Pediatric Dentist in Overland Park, KS

As a new parent, you play a pivotal role in your child’s oral health journey. By following these tips, you can help your little one develop healthy habits that last a lifetime.

Start your child’s journey toward healthier teeth and gums by scheduling an appointment at Smiles Dentistry for Kids in Overland Park, KS. Simply request appointments with our pediatric dentist here or at (913) 685-9990!

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We are excited to welcome Dr Tara Craven to the Smiles Dentistry for Kids team!

Children's dentist, dental check-up, Kids' Dentist, Kids' Health, Pediatric dentist

Children's dentist, dental check-up, Dental Hygiene, Pediatric dentist

Moms, You Have a Huge Impact on Your Kids’ Teeth!

With Mother’s Day approaching, we want to take a moment to salute all the amazing moms that are part of our practice family. You are doing a great job, raising happy and healthy kids. Moms have a huge impact on every element of their children’s lives, and this is no less true when it comes to kids’ teeth. You already know that it’s up to you (and dad!) to teach your kids how to brush and floss. But your own oral health, your genes, and your example also have a role to play.

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids, Dr. Matt and his team partner with children and their parents to provide outstanding pediatric care. At our Overland Park, KS, practice, we prioritize gentle treatment and patient education. If you are looking for the best ways to protect your kids’ teeth, you have come to the right place!

To learn more about children’s dental health or to schedule an appointment for your child, contact our office today.

Passing on Cavities

Here’s a fact that may surprise you: cavities are contagious. Tooth decay is caused by bacteria. And just like other types of bacteria, oral microbes can spread from person to person. Alarmingly, babies and small children are most susceptible to contagious cavities because their immune systems are not fully developed.

To keep from passing cavities on to your kids’ teeth, avoid sharing utensils and drinking out of the same cup. Of course, this is especially vital if you have untreated tooth decay. But since decay often goes undiagnosed until the advanced stages, it is important that you visit the dentist regularly for exams.

Genetics and Your Kids’ Teeth

In other ways, your effect on your kids’ teeth is totally out of your control. As much as 60% of a person’s risk for cavities is genetic. Genes affect the strength of your children’s dental enamel, the ability of their saliva to combat bacteria, and their predilection for sweets. Genetics also contributes to a person’s risk for gum disease.

Of course, this doesn’t mean that if you have struggled with cavities or periodontitis, your children are destined to a life of dental problems. Daily hygiene and regular visits to the dentist also determine how likely someone is to enjoy good oral health.

Leading by Example

And that brings us to our last point. Perhaps the biggest way that you can affect your kids’ teeth is by setting a good example of oral care. When you brush and floss daily, your kids are more likely to do so, too. And when you visit the dentist regularly, your kids will accept their own visits as a normal part of life.

Contact Us to Protect Your Kids’ Teeth

We know that our moms are working tirelessly and wholeheartedly. We encourage you to keep being proactive about your children’s dental care. If you need additional tips and tricks, or if you are ready to schedule an appointment, contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids today.

Request an appointment online or call (913) 685-9990.

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We are excited to welcome Dr Tara Craven to the Smiles Dentistry for Kids team!

Children's dentist, dental check-up, Kids' Dentist, Kids' Health, Pediatric dentist

Children's dentist, dental check-up, Dental Hygiene, Pediatric dentist

“When can my child start brushing his own teeth?” and Other FAQs about Kids’ Oral Hygiene

Whether you are a new parent or a veteran, you know that when it comes to your kids, there’s no shortage of advice out there. Frustratingly, much of it is contradictory. And it is no different when it comes to oral hygiene. So how do you know the right thing to do? Fortunately, organizations like the American Dental Academy and the American Academy of Pediatrics have issued clear guidelines about how to protect your child’s teeth.

A great pediatric dentist is another invaluable resource. Dr. Matt and the team at Smiles Dentistry for Kids in Overland Park, KS, stay on top of the latest dental research and guidelines. They can help you navigate the often confusing waters of kids’ oral health. And they also offer oral hygiene and preventive care for children of all ages.

For more information about how to care for your child’s teeth or to schedule an appointment, contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids today.

When should I start brushing my child’s teeth?

As soon as they come in! Baby teeth are just as prone to decay as adult teeth, and this is true from the moment they erupt. Brush twice a day, just as you would your own teeth.

Actually, good oral care begins even before teething. When your child is still an infant, wipe her gums with a soft cloth or a piece of gauze. Not only will this help to prevent decay later on; it will also accustom her to oral hygiene from an early age.

When can my child start brushing his own teeth?

The timeline varies from child to child. Your little one should not begin brushing on his own until you are certain that he can do so safely and effectively. For some children, this may be as young as age 6. Others may be closer to age 8 or 9 before they are ready to brush for themselves. Regardless of the age, be sure to supervise your child until you are certain that he is brushing properly. And you may need to remind your child to brush twice daily for several years to come!

How much toothpaste should I use?

For children under age 3, use a smear no larger than a grain of rice. After age 3, use the same amount that you should for yourself – a dollop about the size of a pea.

Almost 40% of kids between the ages of 3 and 6 use too much toothpaste. The excessive fluoride they are taking can damage the still-developing dental enamel. They may develop fluorosis, a condition that causes white spots on the surface of teeth.

What kind of toothbrush should I buy?

Actually, for both kids and adults, soft bristled toothbrushes are the best. This type is less abrasive and will not damage the dental enamel. For very young kids, be sure to purchase a toothbrush with a smaller head.

Learn More about Kids’ Oral Hygiene

We are always happy to answer your questions and help you feel confident about your child’s oral hygiene. Contact our office today with any questions or to schedule an appointment.

Reach us online or call us at (913) 685-9990.

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We are excited to welcome Dr Tara Craven to the Smiles Dentistry for Kids team!

Children's dentist, dental check-up, Kids' Dentist, Kids' Health, Pediatric dentist

Children's dentist, dental check-up, Dental Hygiene, Pediatric dentist

Ask a Childrens’ Dentist in Overland Park: Can kids get gum disease?

Kids are prone to a lot of illnesses. Sometimes it seems that your child is staying home from school every other week for an ear infection, a stomach bug, or a cough. One sickness you probably don’t worry about too much is gum disease. But the condition is actually quite common among kids. Fortunately, a children’s dentist in Overland Park can provide the care your child needs to protect his smile.

Dr. Matt and the team at Smiles Dentistry for Kids are committed to providing outstanding care for children of all ages. Our gentle preventive care can reduce the threat of gum disease and prevent dental damage if it does occur.

To learn more about children’s oral health, or to schedule an appointment for your child, contact our children’s dentist in Overland Park today.

What is gum disease?

Gum disease, or periodontitis, is a chronic condition that results when bacteria accumulate in the mouth. Moving from the teeth to below the gum line, the microbes make pockets in the soft tissues. Initially, patients will experience gum inflammation, redness, and mild bleeding. As the pockets grow larger, however, patients can experience significant discomfort, increased bleeding, gum recession, and even tooth loss.

How common is gum disease?

Gum disease is one of the most prevalent health conditions in the country, affecting 46% of US adults over age 30. Additionally, studies suggest that nearly all children and adolescents display some signs of gum inflammation and infection.

Most children have the milder form of gum disease, gingivitis, which is reversible with proper care. However, early intervention is essential to prevent tooth loss. Moreover, children who have gum inflammation are more likely to suffer from gum disease as adults.

How can a children’s dentist in Overland Park treat gum disease?

For gingivitis, a thorough dental cleaning is typically enough to end symptoms and reverse the condition. For children with more advanced periodontitis, more will be needed. A deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, will allow the dentist to remove bacterial pockets from deeper in the gums. During the procedure, he will also smooth tooth roots, since rough spots in these areas can provide an ideal haven for bacteria. The dentist will administer local anesthesia before a deep cleaning, and nitrous oxide is also available for wiggly younger children or those who are particularly anxious.

How can I prevent gum disease?

Working hand-in-hand with your children’s dentist in Overland Park, you can go a long way to prevent your child from developing gum disease. First, make sure he or she is practicing good oral hygiene at home. As soon as baby teeth appear, you should begin brushing them twice a day. Flossing should also begin as soon as your child has two or more teeth that touch.

Second, be sure to schedule routine cleanings and exams for your child. When he or she visits the dentist biannually, Dr. Matt or our hygienist can remove plaque and bacteria before it has a chance to migrate to the gums.

Contact a Children’s Dentist in Overland Park

To schedule preventive care for your child or to learn more about pediatric gum disease, contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids today.

You can reach our office online or call (913) 685-9990.

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We are excited to welcome Dr Tara Craven to the Smiles Dentistry for Kids team!

Children's dentist, dental check-up, Kids' Dentist, Kids' Health, Pediatric dentist

Children's dentist, dental check-up, Dental Hygiene, Pediatric dentist

3 Treatment Options for Children’s Cavities

Cavities. It’s a dreaded word for a child who, until now, has had impeccable dental health. And as a parent, you’re likely to worry, too. What will this mean for your little one’s long-term oral health? And will it affect that charming grin you love so much?

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids in Overland Park, KS, we offer complete restorative services for children. Dr. Matt will assess your child’s oral health using our state-of-the-art x-rays. Then he can determine which of the three most common treatments is most suitable for your child. He always begins with the most conservative option and will work meticulously to provide beautiful cosmetic results.

If your child is experiencing dental pain, or if he has been diagnosed with a cavity, contact our office to schedule an appointment.

Cavities: An Overview

Ultimately, bacteria cause tooth decay. If harmful microbes accumulate, they will form a film of plaque. Over time, the plaque will harden into tartar, and acid will start to erode the tooth enamel. Bacteria can then access the underlying layers of dental tissue, and a cavity will form.

Sadly, cavities frequently appear in children’s teeth. Surveys show that nearly a quarter of all children between the ages of 2 and 5 have developed at least one cavity. Over half of all children between the ages of 6 and 8 have tooth decay.

Option 1: Fillings

Fillings are the most common treatment for cavities, as well as the most conservative solution. Today’s tooth-colored fillings are an almost perfect match to teeth, so your child’s smile should look as good as new after treatment. Even more importantly, composite fillings do not pose the same health risks as older silver amalgam fillings, which contain about 50% mercury.

Before treatment, Dr. Matt will numb the tooth. If your child is especially young or feeling particularly anxious, we can also offer IV sedation. To place a filling, Dr. Matt will clean out the damaged tissue and bacteria. Then he will apply the composite filling in layers.

Option 2: Dental Crowns

If a cavity is very large, a filling may not be enough to restore the tooth. In these cases, Dr. Matt will often recommend dental crowns. Tooth-shaped restorations, crowns go right on top of teeth and can strengthen even very weakened teeth.

Dr. Matt will place a crown in two stages. During the first stage, he will reshape the tooth and remove any decayed tissue. Then he will make impressions. After the dental lab creates a custom crown to match the nearby teeth, Dr. Matt will attach the restoration with composite.

Option 3: Extraction

Only as a last resort will Dr. Matt recommend extraction. Even if your child has cavities in his or her baby teeth, these teeth play an important role. They help to keep the other teeth in their proper places, and they ensure that the permanent teeth come in properly spaced. Therefore, if your child does need extraction, Dr. Matt will also attach spacers, which will keep the other teeth from shifting and will maintain proper bite alignment.

Schedule an Appointment for Your Child

If your child is suffering from cavities, visiting a dentist who specifically treats children can give you greater peace of mind.

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We are excited to welcome Dr Tara Craven to the Smiles Dentistry for Kids team!

Children's dentist, dental check-up, Kids' Dentist, Kids' Health, Pediatric dentist

Children's dentist, dental check-up, Dental Hygiene, Pediatric dentist

Should I let my kids eat Easter candy?

The Easter dresses and suits may be hanging back in the closet. And hopefully all the eggs have been retrieved from under bushes and beneath couch cushions. But if you are like most homes in America, one part of Easter is still hanging around: the massive piles of candy. So you may be wondering, should you let your kids eat it? Or should it make a mysterious disappearance while they are off at school?

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids in Overland Park, KS, Dr. Matt and his team are passionate about helping parents raise healthy kids. And though dental health is certainly a big piece of the puzzle, we also care about children’s physical and mental wellbeing. We want to provide parents the information they need to make fully informed decisions about their kids and a healthy way of life.

We love to answer questions and are always happy to discuss your concerns. Contact us today to speak to a member of our team.

How Sugar Affects Teeth

We all know that sugar is a notorious culprit for causing dental cavities. But how exactly does this work? Ultimately, sugar itself doesn’t cause cavities – bacteria lead to tooth decay. However, sugar is a ready food source for oral bacteria. When sugar remains in the mouth, bacteria can multiply quickly and form a thin film of plaque. Plaque adheres to teeth, keeping bacteria in constant contact with the tooth enamel. The elevated levels of microbes raise acidity in the mouth, leading to enamel erosion and allowing bacteria to access the softer underlying layers of tissue. Eventually a cavity will form.

Recommended Sugar Consumption

So does this mean your little one is inevitably developing a cavity as she sits there noshing on a sugar-coated marshmallow chick? Not necessarily. Though we certainly don’t advocate eating marshmallows for breakfast on a regular basis, moderation is key. It’s ok to make an exception for a special day like Easter. Then you can go back to offering your normal healthy options.

In general, it will benefit your child to limit sugar intake. The World Health Organization recommends that sugar should make up no more than 5% of our daily energy intake (for both adults and children). For kids aged 4 to 6, this means no more than 19 grams of sugar a day. Children aged 5 to 11 should consume no more than 24 grams a day.

A Healthy Attitude Towards Food

At the same time, by completely denying your child access to sugar, you could set up a harmful cycle. Sugar is now seen as the ultimate goal, and kids will do anything to get it. They may not learn how to eat moderately or to trust their bodies. Try allowing reasonable access to sweet treats and modeling a healthy attitude towards food. This will help kids see food as something to celebrate and share – and to treat with respect as they learn to nourish their growing bodies.

Contact Us to Learn More about Children’s Dental Health

To learn more children’s health recommendations or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Matt, contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids.

You can reach our office online or call us at (913) 685-9990.

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We are excited to welcome Dr Tara Craven to the Smiles Dentistry for Kids team!

Children's dentist, dental check-up, Kids' Dentist, Kids' Health, Pediatric dentist

Children's dentist, dental check-up, Dental Hygiene, Pediatric dentist