Category: Children’s dentist

Your child opens his mouth, and you see white stuff covering his tongue. You freak out! What the heck is that? In all likelihood, it’s thrush, a common yeast infection in the mouth. It looks alarming, but thrush is usually fairly harmless, although in rare cases it can spread beyond the mouth. Fortunately, a good pediatric dentist can treat thrush and provide tips to reduce the risk of future infections.

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids in Overland Park, KS, Dr. Matt and Dr. Craven are experts in all manner of pediatric oral problems, including thrush. Once your little one’s infection has cleared up, we can also provide complete dental care, including exams and cleanings. 

To learn more about thrush or to get appropriate treatment, contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids today.

What is thrush?

Thrush is an oral yeast infection, also known as oral candidiasis. It typically causes white, creamy looking sores to appear on the tongue and insides of the cheeks. The sores may bleed slightly when they are scraped. Your child may also experience a slight loss of taste, a cottony or burning feeling, or a nasty taste in the mouth. 

Babies, of course, will not be able to communicate these symptoms. But you may notice fussiness and irritability, as well as difficulty feeding. 

Why does thrush occur?

Many people have the Candida albicans (C. albicans) fungus in their mouths, and for most it is not a problem. However, when fungal overgrowth occurs, a thrush infection will develop. These infections are particularly likely to affect infants and small children because their immune systems are still developing. In fact, an estimated 5-7% of babies under a month old will suffer from thrush.

Thrush can also affect infants if their moms have a history of vaginal yeast infections. In these cases, infection can pass to the babies during delivery. C. albicans can also pass back and forth between baby and mom if the infant is breastfeeding. 

Treating Thrush

Your dentist or pediatrician can easily treat thrush with a prescription antifungal medication. Infection will usually go away in about 4 to 5 days, though it’s important to continue using the medication as directed.

If you are a nursing mom and experience any signs of infection on your breasts, you should call your own healthcare provider. She will most likely prescribe a topical antifungal cream and, potentially, oral medications, as well. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly after applying the medication. You can continue breastfeeding while you and your baby take your medications. 

Preventing Thrush

To prevent thrush from occurring or to prevent a recurrence of the infection, be sure that your child maintains proper oral hygiene. For older children, this means daily brushing and flossing. For infants, it means wiping their gums with a soft cloth several times a day. You can also prevent thrush by thoroughly sterilizing all pacifiers and bottle nipples. 

Contact Us for More Pediatric Dentistry Information

Parenthood is a wild ride, and we know it can be a stressful one for parents. That’s why we are always here to answer questions and provide guidance. 

Contact our office online to learn more about thrush or other oral health concerns. You can also call us at 913-685-9990. 

In the enchanting world of pediatric dentistry, a perplexing mystery continues to baffle parents and dental professionals alike: why do some kids get cavities and others don’t? While some kids seem to navigate the sugary terrain of childhood without a single cavity, others find themselves in the dentist’s chair more frequently than their peers. So, what exactly lies beneath this pediatric dentistry mystery? Dr. Matt Hillman is here to explain.

If your child is prone to cavities, a visit to our pediatric dental clinic in Overland Park, KS, can help solve this confounding mystery. Contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids at (913) 685-9990 to request an appointment today!

In today’s post, we explore common reasons why some kids are prone to cavities while others aren’t.

The Wonderful World of Oral Bacteria

Our mouths are teeming with a vast array of bacteria, with experts estimating that some 700 species exist in the oral cavity alone. 

While some of these microbes are beneficial, others can lead to cavities. Indeed, an overgrowth of harmful bacteria can lead to enamel erosion, which is the leading cause of cavities. 

Therefore, keeping the microbial landscape in a child’s mouth in harmonious balance is key to fighting cavities. Parents can help prevent dental decay through a healthy diet and by monitoring dental hygiene practices.

Smile-Saving Saliva

The unsung hero of cavity prevention is saliva. This seemingly simple fluid holds a treasure trove of protective elements, including minerals (like calcium and phosphate) that can help remineralize weakened enamel. 

Pediatric dentistry fact: Some children naturally produce more saliva or saliva with a higher mineral content, providing an internal defense against cavity formation. This variability in saliva composition may explain why certain kids seem almost immune to dental decay.

Diet and Dental Health

Dietary habits also play a crucial role in the cavity conundrum. While we know that excessive sugar consumption is a primary contributor to cavities, some children may have a heightened susceptibility to the damaging effects of sugar on their teeth. 

Genetics’ Influence on Little Grins

Some children may inherit strong enamel and a robust immune response that helps fend off harmful bacteria. 

On the flip side, genetic factors could also contribute to weaker enamel or a less efficient defense system. As a result, these children may be more likely to develop cavities despite their best oral hygiene efforts.

Healthy Habits for Healthy Smiles

Beyond the biological factors, lifestyle choices and oral hygiene practices add another layer to the mystery. Children who establish good dental habits early on (including regular brushing, flossing, and attending regular pediatric dentistry check-ups) may naturally have a lower risk of cavities. 

Have a pediatric dentistry mystery? We can solve it!

While the mysteries surrounding cavity susceptibility persist, pediatric dentists are not without tools to address the puzzle. Advances in diagnostic techniques allow for early identification of risk factors, enabling targeted interventions to prevent cavities before they take hold. If you’d like to discuss cavity prevention and treatment with Dr. Matt, contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids in Overland Park, KS, today!

You can reach our team online here, or you can talk to us directly by calling or texting (913) 685-9990 to learn more about your child’s dental health. 

Dentists, with their white coats and shiny tools, often evoke a mix of curiosity and anxiety among adults. But what about kids? Those pint-sized bundles of energy and imagination have their own unique perspectives on the mysterious world of dentistry. So, what do kids think about dentists? Our pediatric dental clinic in Overland Park, KS, is here to give our perspective. 

Dr. Matt Hillman has years of experience helping little smiles grow into healthy and strong grins. If it’s time for your little one to visit a dentist, consider Smiles Dentistry for Kids in Overland Park, KS. We have fun and effective solutions that can make going to the dentist a positive experience for your kiddos. Call or text (913) 685-99990 to request an appointment now!

If you’ve ever wondered, “What do kids think about dentists?”, then stick around. In today’s blog, we delve into the whimsical minds of children and explore what they truly think about dentists.

The Tooth Fairy’s Ally

Kids might view their dentist as the one who ensures their teeth are in top condition, ready for collection by the elusive Tooth Fairy. This connection adds a touch of enchantment to the dental experience and makes the dentist a key player in the folklore of childhood.

The Mysterious Dental Tools

Dental tools, with their peculiar shapes and names, can be both intriguing and intimidating to kids. 

The dental chair, the mirror, and the drill may seem like instruments from a futuristic spaceship to the young imagination. Children might concoct wild theories about the purpose of each tool, turning a routine dental visit into an adventurous exploration of uncharted territories.

Stickers, Prizes, and the Treasure Trove

One aspect that often shapes a child’s perception of dentists is the treasure trove of rewards they receive after a successful visit. Stickers, small toys, and even a shiny new toothbrush can transform the dentist’s office into a wonderland of prizes. These little tokens become symbols of triumph over fears, creating positive associations that may stick with kids throughout their lives.

The Dreaded Drill Dilemma

While the prizes and rewards are a hit, the sound of the dental drill can be a different story. 

Many kids harbor a certain level of apprehension about the dreaded drill, envisioning it as a buzzing beast that might invade their mouths. Dentists, aware of this fear, often go the extra mile to make the experience as painless and comfortable as possible.

The Friendly Faces Behind the Masks

Dentists and their assistants, often garbed in masks and gloves, can initially appear as enigmatic figures to kids. However, the magic lies in the moments when these professionals reveal the friendly faces hidden behind the protective gear. 

Establishing a rapport with young patients and making them feel at ease can turn a dental visit into a positive and memorable experience, fostering trust and dispelling any lingering fears.

Find out what kids think about our dentist in Overland Park, KS!

In the kaleidoscopic world of a child’s imagination, dentists play a unique role, weaving together elements of fantasy, curiosity, and a touch of apprehension. While dental visits may come with a mix of emotions for kids, the friendly faces at Smiles Dentistry for Kids can help make their experiences more pleasant. But don’t take our word for it – read more about what our patients think here!

Want to learn more about what kids think about dentists? Contact Dr. Matt online here or call our team at (913) 685-9990 for more information!

Happy Thanksgiving from your children’s dentist! This time of year, kids often learn about the first Thanksgiving, shared between European settlers and their Native American friends. But your child’s teacher probably hasn’t talked about dental health in the American colonies. And that’s a shame because, when you think about the strides we’ve made since that first Thanksgiving feast, we truly have a lot to be grateful for!

Dr. Matt, Dr. Craven, and the team at Smiles Dentistry for Kids wish you and your family a happy Thanksgiving. At our Overland Park, KS, office, we are thankful that you have chosen to trust us with your childrens’ dental health. Enjoy this peek into daily life in colonial America, and enjoy this beautiful celebration with your loved ones. (Just don’t forget to brush your teeth after dinner!)

To join our office family or to schedule an appointment, contact us today.

The First Thanksgiving 

When we think about the first Thanksgiving, we usually think about the feast in Plymouth colony. In November 1621, the Pilgrims organized a celebration following the first successful corn harvest in their new land. They invited several of the Wampanoag people, with whom they had formed an alliance. 

It’s important to note that many Native Americans resent this rosy portrait of friendship. Though the European settlers initially befriended the native people, this peace was short-lived. It wasn’t long before fighting broke out, and the many local tribes were deprived of their ancestral land.

Chowing Down in Plymouth

We don’t know for sure what was on that first Thanksgiving menu, but it probably looked a lot different from the feast we enjoy today. For one thing, turkey wasn’t necessarily an option. But the revelers definitely enjoyed venison, since the Native Americans arrived with five deer as a contribution to the meal. And many historians believe that most of the dishes were prepared using Wampanoag spices and cooking methods.

It’s also unlikely that pie – pumpkin or otherwise – was on the menu. Sugar was unheard of among Native Americans, although they did use honey and molasses to sweeten their food. 

The Early American Settlers and Dental Health 

It’s a good thing that the Pilgrims couldn’t feast on dessert because they had enough dental problems as it was! They didn’t have a children’s dentist (or a general dentist) among them. Instead, barber-surgeons trimmed hair, pulled teeth, and performed any other needed health services. And the settlers probably didn’t perform any type of dental hygiene. After all, they didn’t even like to bathe regularly!

All-Natural Remedies among Native Americans

All in all, the Wampanoag and other native tribes likely enjoyed better dental health. Most used “chew sticks” to keep their teeth clean, much like a modern toothbrush. They also chewed mint and other herbs to freshen their breath. And they rubbed charcoal on their teeth – an early form of teeth whitening. 

Contact Your Children’s Dentist Today

Today, we are thankful to have made enormous strides in the way we care for our teeth, including routine exams and cleanings. To schedule an appointment with a great children’s dentist, contact our office today.

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

Sometimes it seems like children are constantly getting sick. But if your child suddenly develops a sore in or around his mouth, it can set your alarm bells ringing. It can also be very unpleasant, especially for small children. Fortunately, your children’s dentist is here to answer your questions and set your mind at ease.

As a father himself, Dr. Matt knows that being a parent comes with a lot of worry. That’s why he and the team at Smiles Dentistry for Kids in Overland Park, KS, prioritize parent education. Whether your child has recurring cold sores or a toothache, he is always happy to explain the causes and your treatment options.

Still have questions or looking to schedule an appointment? Contact us today!

What is a cold sore?

Cold sores, also called fever blisters, are quite common in children. They are the result of the herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). Children can be infected by the virus and then not manifest symptoms until another factor causes it to awaken. That’s why fever blisters often appear during times of stress, cold weather, or another illness.

Are cold sores contagious?

HSV-2 is highly contagious! If you or someone in your family has a cold sore, it’s important to avoid kissing, sharing utensils, and using the same towels until the blister has gone away. 

Is there a treatment for cold sores?

Cold compresses and acetaminophen can help to minimize pain, and, in some cases, your children’s dentist may prescribe antiviral medications. 

What is a canker sore?

Canker sores are small ulcers inside the mouth, particularly on the lips, cheeks, or under the tongue. They are usually small and white with a red, inflamed ring. They may appear on their own, or they could develop in clusters. Canker sores usually go away in one to two weeks. They are quite common and affect an estimated 10% of the population.

The cause of canker sores is unknown. In some cases, they can appear as a result of food allergies or a diet low in folic acid. Stress and hormonal changes can also bring about canker sores, but the exact correlation between these events is unknown.

Are canker sores contagious?

No. You cannot pass on canker sores. However, they tend to run in families, so if you suffer from recurring mouth ulcers, there is a greater likelihood that your child will, too.

Is there a treatment for canker sores?

There is no cure for canker sores, but, again, acetaminophen can keep inflammation under control. Dr. Matt may also prescribe a topical numbing medication if pain is particularly bad.

When should I be concerned?

In general, you shouldn’t! 

However, if a baby under six months of age gets a cold sore, you should seek emergency medical treatment.

You should also contact your children’s dentist if cold or canker sores last more than two weeks. If your child has recurring canker sore outbreaks, your dentist or pediatrician may recommend testing to see if there is a dietary cause.

Contact Your Children’s Dentist 

To learn more about children’s oral health or to schedule an appointment, contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids. 

Reach us via our website or call us at (913) 685-9990.

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.

It’s normal for children to be scared of new experiences. And since kids typically only visit the dentist twice a year, it may be several years before your little one remembers and recognizes what is happening. Plus, some kids continue to feel nervous at the thought of dental care. Anxiety is normal. And it is manageable, especially when you visit an experienced children’s dentist in Overland Park. 

Dr. Matt and his team at Smiles Dentistry for Kids focus exclusively on pediatric care. Our bright, colorful office is full of activities and visuals to keep kids distracted and entertained. Most importantly, our fun-loving and understanding team love working with kids. We know how to help children feel at home so that they look forward to their dental visits year after year.

Contact your children’s dentist in Overland Park to schedule an appointment.

1. Visit the Office in Advance 

For some kids, just being in a new environment can be a harrowing experience. That’s why schools offer a “meet the teacher” event before the first day of the academic year. If your child is ill at ease in new places, come into our office beforehand to get a taste of what to expect.

2. Talk about What Will Happen

In accord with American Dental Association guidelines, Dr. Matt recommends that children have their first dental appointment as soon as their teeth come in or no later than their first birthday. At this age, of course, kids probably don’t have the vocabulary to understand what will happen. But if your child is older, talking about what to expect can really set her mind at ease.

Discuss your own experiences at the dentist, but, of course, use positive language. However, if you have struggled with dental anxiety yourself, it can be helpful to share. Talk about how you overcame your fears and had a positive experience.

3. Read Books about the Dentist

There are lots of books about the dentist. Find an age-appropriate one to read aloud. Use it as an opportunity to discuss your child’s own upcoming appointment. Read it for the first time several weeks prior to the visit, and reread it several times before coming into the office. 

4. Bring a Lovey

Does your child have a security blanket or favorite stuffed animal? Bring it with you! We welcome all favorite dolls, dogs, bears, blankets, trucks, and more! 

5. Find a Compassionate Dentist Specifically for Kids

There are many gentle dentists who work with anxious patients. Nonetheless, a dentist who exclusively sees children may be better able to set anxious kids at ease. 

As your children’s dentist in Overland Park, Dr. Matt offers a full range of pediatric dental services, including preventive care and emergency treatment. Your child will see the same dentist every time. We want children to understand what is going on and will use age-appropriate vocabulary to explain every step of treatment. Plus, our welcoming office has cartoons, movies, and video games to keep kids entertained! 

6. Offer Sedation, If Needed

For many kids, our expertise and welcoming environment is enough to set them at ease. But if your child suffers from more severe anxiety or is preparing for an extensive procedure, we can also provide nitrous oxide sedation. More commonly known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide is safe and wears off quickly. Our team is appropriately trained in the use of sedation and will carefully monitor your child throughout treatment.

Contact a Fun, Gentle Children’s Dentist in Overland Park

Dental care should be a pleasant experience – both for your child and for you! Contact our office to schedule your stress-free appointment. 

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

With the new school year ramping up, you may already find yourself stuck in a rut when it comes to your child’s lunch. Changing things up not only introduces your son or daughter to a wider range of textures and flavors. Packing different options can also provide more essential nutrients for both physical and oral health. Here your dentist in Overland Park  provides some top suggestions for promoting a healthy smile. 

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids, Dr. Matt is committed to your child’s complete wellness. Whether you need more tips for healthy school year routines, or your child requires more advanced dental treatment, we are ready to provide outstanding care for you and your family.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Celery Sticks and Carrots

Carrots and celery help to clean teeth while you’re eating them! Both help to stimulate the production of saliva, which washes away food and bacteria from the mouth. Plus, carrots contain Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and calcium.

Cheese Sticks

Studies strongly suggest that cheese helps to reduce the risk of tooth decay. This may be because, like celery and carrots, cheese stimulates saliva production. Plus, the casein and whey protein in cheese may help to prevent tooth demineralization. 

Whole Grain Bread and Crackers 

Next time you pull out the stand-by ham and cheese, be sure to make the sandwich on whole grain bread. Of course, whole grains give your child more sustained energy for the school day. But fiber intake is also important for oral health. According to one study published in the Journal of Nutrition, the risk of gum disease is higher for those who consume low amounts of whole grains.

Nuts

We know that peanuts may not be an option for school lunches, due to the risk of allergies. But other types of nuts can be just as beneficial for oral health. Brazil nuts, cashews, and almonds all help to combat oral bacteria. Walnuts also contain tooth-healthy fiber, iron, thiamine, magnesium, and many other nutrients.

Apples

Apples are beneficial for many of the same reasons that carrots and celery help dental health. It’s true that apples contain lots of natural sugars. But whole apples also have a high amount of fiber to increase saliva and reduce bacteria.

Furthermore, unlike other fruits, apples are low in acidity. Highly acidic fruits, like citrus, can have a corrosive effect on tooth enamel. 

Water

Water is one of the most important things you can pack in your child’s lunch – and encourage them to drink all day long! Fruit punches and drinks in pouches are usually high in sugar and low in nutrients. Even 100% fruit juice, while more nutritious, contains high amounts of sugar. If your child drinks juice at lunch, those sugars are just sitting on their teeth for the rest of the school day. 

Instead, water helps to keep his or her mouth clean until they can get home and brush their teeth. Plus, it doesn’t set your student up for a sugar crash in the midafternoon.

Schedule an Appointment with Your Dentist in Overland Park

Learn more about oral health and how you can protect your child’s precious smile. 

Contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids online or call 913-685-9990 to make an appointment.