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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.

Smiles Dentistry For Kids

14700 Metcalf Ave, Suite 110
Overland Park, KS 66223
(913) 685-9990
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm

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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.

 

 

Smiles Dentistry For Kids

14700 Metcalf Ave, Suite 110
Overland Park, KS 66223
(913) 685-9990
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm

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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.

Smiles Dentistry For Kids

14700 Metcalf Ave, Suite 110
Overland Park, KS 66223
(913) 685-9990
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm

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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.

Smiles Dentistry For Kids

14700 Metcalf Ave, Suite 110
Overland Park, KS 66223
(913) 685-9990
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm

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Losing a tooth can be so exciting! What could be more thrilling than waiting for a little fairy to sneak into your bedroom while you are asleep? Children around the world celebrate this milestone – but the tooth fairy doesn’t visit every country. Instead, a diverse range of traditions exist surrounding the loss of a baby tooth. Here, your children’s dentist in Overland Park, KS, takes a look at some of these fun international rituals. 

If your child has begun losing his or her baby teeth, be sure to check in with Dr. Matt. It is important to verify that the permanent teeth are coming in correctly and that your little one is not at risk for dental decay. At Smiles Dentistry for Kids, we offer complete pediatric dental services for children of ages.

Contact our office today to book an appointment.

The Tooth Fairy

The tooth fairy is a busy lady. In addition to visiting children in the US, she also collects teeth in the United Kingdom, Australia, and Denmark.

And not only does she have to gather all those teeth – she also needs to keep up with economic trends! In a 2018 poll, the average tooth was worth $3.70, up from $1.30 in 1998. 

The Tooth Mouse?

It seems that tiny creatures have a penchant for lost teeth. In Spanish-speaking countries, including Spain, Mexico, Peru, Colombia, Argentina, and Chile, a little mouse collects baby teeth. He goes by different names depending on the country, including El Raton de Los Dientes, Raton Perez, and Ratoncito Perez. 

In most of these countries, the tiny rodents sneak under kids’ pillows to gather teeth. But in Argentina, children leave their teeth in a glass of water. Ratoncito Perez drains the glass and leaves money in the bottom. 

Raton Perez is so popular that there is even a museum dedicated to him in Madrid.

Tossing Those Teeth Around

In many Asian and Middle Eastern countries, children throw their bottom teeth up onto the roof. Lost top teeth get tossed on the floor or under the bed. The hope is that the new incoming teeth will grow towards the old baby teeth.

Some countries are very particular about the way in which teeth are thrown. Children in Indonesia toss their teeth over their shoulders. They’d better have good aim! Tradition states that if they throw straight, the new tooth will come in correctly. But if their aim is off, the new tooth will be crooked.  

In other countries, as children toss their teeth onto the roof, they ask a particular animal to bring them a new one. For instance, children in Sri Lanka hope a squirrel will help them out. In India and Korea, they ask a bird for a new tooth. And in Botswana, they wish upon the moon!

Other Fun Traditions

While certain rituals are widespread, other countries have tooth-related traditions all their own. In Pakistan, children toss their teeth in the river. In Kyrgyzstan, they stuff the teeth in bread to be eaten by a mouse. And in Turkey, they bury teeth in a place that represents a parent’s hopes for the child’s future.

Contact Your Children’s Dentist in Overland Park

We know that your hopes for your child include a lifelong healthy smile. Make sure your little one receives outstanding dental care from a young age!

Contact Dr. Matt and his team online or call us at (913) 685-9990.

Smiles Dentistry For Kids

14700 Metcalf Ave, Suite 110
Overland Park, KS 66223
(913) 685-9990
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm

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As a parent, you may wonder, “Is dental care really that important for children? Aren’t kids more resilient to cavities than adults?” The truth is that kids are just as susceptible to dental decay as their parents! Moreover, when they don’t receive proper dental care from an early age, they are likely to suffer from a lifetime of dental problems. That is why we proudly offer pediatric dentistry services specifically tailored for children.

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids, Dr. Matt and his team perform a full array of pediatric dental care. Though our focus is on preventive services, we are also ready to tackle any problems that may arise. 

To book one of these 4 dental services – or any other care you require – contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids today.

Dental Cleanings and Exams

Of course, brushing and flossing at home are the first  step in preventing tooth decay, but regular trips to the dentist are also vital. Unfortunately, only about half of all US children visit the dentist once a year. Children ages 2 to 5 are even less likely to visit the dentist than older kids. Only 35.1% of this younger group typically visit the dentist once per year. 

The American Dental Association recommends that children visit the dentist no later than their first birthday. We encourage parents to bring their children in no later than 6 months after their first teeth appear. To make early care even easier, we offer free exams and cleanings to children under 2!

Digital X-Rays

X-rays can help Dr. Matt detect hidden cavities. They can also reveal potential orthodontic problems. For instance, they can show whether your child has enough room for his or her incoming adult teeth. 

Like many parents, you may be nervous about exposing your child to x-rays. Following guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, we only take x-rays after age 4 (unless otherwise required). Furthermore, we use digital imaging, which further reduces the already negligible radiation exposure.

Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride is a key component of oral health. This mineral helps to strengthen dental enamel,  providing a barrier to keep bacteria from affecting the soft pulp inside teeth. It can also help to remineralize and repair damaged teeth. 

Although most community water is enhanced with fluoride, bottled water contains no more than 0.17 mg of fluoride per serving. Most foods have negligible amounts of the mineral. To supplement your child’s fluoride intake, Dr. Matt can provide a fluoride rinse or varnish. This topical treatment has no side effects, but it can dramatically reduce your child’s risk of cavities for years to come.

Emergency Care

Of course, we work hard to protect your child’s teeth through routine preventive care. Nonetheless, we know that emergencies can arise. Whether your child suffers decay, sustains an athletic injury, or breaks a tooth biting down on something they shouldn’t, Dr. Matt is on call 24/7 for urgent dental needs.

Schedule An Appointment for Your Child Today

We know your child’s smile lights up your life. Give it the care and protection it deserves with outstanding pediatric dental care. 

Book an appointment online or give us a call at (913) 685-9990. 

Smiles Dentistry For Kids

14700 Metcalf Ave, Suite 110
Overland Park, KS 66223
(913) 685-9990
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm

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Going to the dentist for the first time can be scary for small children. Even those who have been to the office before may not remember, or they may be alarmed by the unusual sights and sounds. When you are preparing for a trip to the dentist in Overland Park, reading stories can be a great way to prepare. 

Picture books give little ones a visual guide to what they will experience. And when they see brave storybook heroes visiting the dentist, it can give little ones a boost of courage. Of course, Dr. Matt has a great chairside manner and will also help to set your child at ease.

In honor of today’s National Book Lover’s Day, here are 8 great children’s books to help prepare your kids for a dental visit. Ready to visit? Contact Smile’s Dentistry for Kids to make an appointment. 

1. Going to the Dentist: A Toddler PrepTM Book

Going to the Dentist explains exactly what a toddler can expect when visiting the dentist. It includes helpful photographs, which can better help prepare children. 

Keep in mind that, even though this book is geared for toddlers, children should visit the dentist no later than their first  birthday

2. Just Going to the Dentist by Mercer Mayer

Part of the beloved Little Critter series, Just Going to the Dentist features familiar characters and illustrations. When the Little Critter finds a cavity, it shows kids that they can handle “scary” dental problems.

3. (NOT) Scary Stuff at the Dentist’s Office by Tana S. Holmes

(NOT) Scary Stuff is meant to be read aloud with frequent shouts of “NOT scary!” This fun, interactive book truly helps put kids at ease. 

4. Brush, Brush, Brush! by Alicia Padron

A rhyming board book geared towards kids aged 1-3, Brush, Brush, Brush! introduces the youngest children to the importance of good oral hygiene.

5. The Tooth Book by Mark Bacera

Even many parents don’t know the order in which teeth fall out. The Tooth Book introduces this topic, the five types of teeth, and other scientific information in a fun and engaging way. 

6. Quinn Amelia Goes to the Dentist by Nicole Rodriguez-Wilson

When four-year old Amelia goes to the dentist for the first time, she even has x-rays taken. Encourage kids to face new experiences bravely with this courageous young heroine.

7. Tooth by Leslie Patricelli

A unique offering, Tooth is a board book about teething. While this can be a great offering for the youngest readers, it can also be helpful for older siblings as they struggle to understand why Baby is crying during this new transition. 

8. Tooth Fairy Wishes by Andre Calbert 

When a little girl loses her first tooth, she learns all about what the tooth fairy most desires – healthy dental habits! In a fun rhyming story, kids discover the effects of flossing, brushing, and a nutritious diet. Plus, the book includes illustrations of a dentist, the tooth fairy, a castle, and even a unicorn! 

Contact a Compassionate Dentist in Overland Park

After all that reading, your child is definitely prepared to visit the dentist! Make the experience even easier by visiting a dentist who cares specifically for kids

Make an appointment with Dr. Matt online or call the office at (913) 685-9990.

Smiles Dentistry For Kids

14700 Metcalf Ave, Suite 110
Overland Park, KS 66223
(913) 685-9990
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm

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Has your little one played outside today? Whether you have a little miss (or mister) sunshine, you might be surprised that catching a few extra rays of sunshine can improve your child’s health. Spending a little time with Mother Nature comes with many benefits, including access to much-needed vitamin D. Continue reading to learn how the “sunshine vitamin” benefits your child’s teeth and gums.

What exactly is vitamin D?

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin. Something that makes this vitamin unique is that it’s a nutrient that your body can naturally make when the skin is exposed to sunlight, or it can be obtained via consumption.

What role does vitamin D play in bodily functions?

Vitamin D receptors are sprinkled throughout the body. This suggests that vitamin D has a more significant role in overall health than we know. Some stand-out highlights of vitamin D are that it:

  • Aids calcium absorption, which is an essential component for strengthening teeth and bones
  • Supports muscle movement
  • Aids the immune system

How does vitamin D support dental health?

Although you might not need another excuse to go outside today, it’s pretty amazing that the human body turns sunlight into a vitamin that is crucial for tooth, gum, and bone growth and development. Vitamin D deficiency is linked to these two prevalent yet serious chronic oral health issues:

  • Cavities: Tooth decay is the most common chronic childhood disease. As previously mentioned, vitamin D is essential for strengthening teeth. So, if your child’s vitamin D levels are unregulated, this can cause their teeth to become more susceptible to tooth decay and dental fractures. In a recent study, researchers concluded that vitamin D levels are significantly associated with the occurrence of tooth decay.
  • Gum Disease: Low vitamin D levels are linked to an increased risk of gum disease.

What are some sources of vitamin D?

If your child’s pediatrician diagnoses your little one with a vitamin D deficiency, here are three ways that your child can obtain more vitamin D:

  1. Spend an adequate time outside: The amount of sunshine each person needs varies and largely depends on the time of day and year, your child’s skin tone, and how much skin is exposed. Also, it’s vital to be mindful that sunscreen can protect your child’s skin from harmful rays that burn and potentially cause skin cancer, but it does prohibit vitamin D production.

2. Consume a diet high in vitamin D: Many dairy products and cereals are fortified with vitamin D. But some natural sources of vitamin D include fatty fish (like salmon) and fish oil.

3. Supplement vitamin D: If your child is still vitamin D deficient (even with time outside and a diet high in vitamin D), we encourage you to ask your child’s pediatrician about a sufficient dosage for vitamin D supplements.

Here’s Another Way to Improve Your Child’s Dental Health

Between sunlight, vitamin-D-rich food, and supplements, your child should be able to obtain the vitamin D that they need for a strong and healthy smile. Aside from consuming enough vitamin D, another way to take of your child’s dental health is to schedule consistent children’s dentistry appointments.

Are you searching for a kids dentist in Overland Park, KS? If so, Dr. Matt and his team are ready to serve your family. Call (913) 685-9990 or message us online for more information.

Smiles Dentistry For Kids

14700 Metcalf Ave, Suite 110
Overland Park, KS 66223
(913) 685-9990
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm

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Just when you think you’re finished with spring allergies, summer allergies come along. Typically, summer allergy season commences in June and ends in September, but you might notice children’s allergy symptoms peaking in June and July. Aside from watery eyes, sneezing, and nasal congestion, you might notice that your child wakes up with a sore jaw.

Can seasonal allergies cause jaw pain, or could it be something else? Read on to find out!

How Our Sinuses, Teeth, and Jaws Interact

The sinus cavity is a hollow system found in the skull and facial bones that connect to the nose. Healthy sinuses are air-filled voids protected by a thin layer of mucus.

When seasonal allergies attack, the sinuses inflame and swell. Because they take up an extensive amount of facial real estate, a swollen sinus cavity often causes pain and pressure in the face.

Namely, the maxillary sinuses are balanced above the upper back teeth (near the ears and temporomandibular joints). If your child has a sinus infection from cold or allergies, their back teeth might hurt. Potentially, this pain can spread to the ears and jaws.

Common Causes of Jaw Pain

Aside from sinus pressure and allergies, here are a few other common reasons why children suffer from jaw pain:

Mouth Breathing

Generally, congestion worsens in a lying-down position. When your child’s nose is congested, they are compelled to breathe through their mouth while they sleep. Holding the mouth open for long stretches can put a strain on the temporomandibular joints and facial muscles, which can lead to jaw pain and fatigue.

Overusing Facial Muscles

If your child’s allergies force them to incessantly cough and sneeze, their facial muscles and joints might overtax. This can lead to facial tension and a sore jaw.

Bruxism

Bruxism (excessive, chronic teeth grinding) is an infamous culprit behind tooth and jaw pain. If your child has allergies, they might be predisposed to nocturnal bruxism (chronic teeth grinding during sleep). In a study conducted at the University Miami School of Medicine, researchers concluded that nocturnal bruxism is significantly more prevalent in children with allergies than in their non-allergic peers. Theoretically, this might be because the Eustachian tubes in the ears swell in response to allergies. Consequently, excessive, chronic teeth grinding is a response to the change in pressure in the middle ear.

Cavity

Tooth decay starts at the outermost layer of the tooth (the enamel). A dentist can swiftly resolve a cavity with a dental filling or crown if handled early.

Although sinus pressure is generally felt in several upper back teeth, a deep-rooted cavity can cause jaw pain. Generally, cavity-related pain is progressive. It starts in the infected tooth but can spread to the jaw, neck, and ear (generally, on the same side as the affected tooth). At this point, an extraction might be necessary.

What is causing your child’s jaw pain? Dr. Matt can help you figure out the mystery.

Seasonal allergies and TMJ disorders share several symptoms, like facial pain, headaches, and ear aches. Generally, here’s how to differentiate the two common health issues:

  • Allergy discomfort characteristically kicks in seasonally. Once the allergen, congestion, and sinus inflammation go away, so does the jaw pain.
  • Typically, TMJ Issues are prolonged and accompanied by stiffness, popping, or clicking noises when opening the mouth.

If your child is still experiencing jaw pain after their allergies have resolved, it’s wise to reach out to your local pediatric dentist. Are you concerned about your child’s jaw pain? If so, contact Dr. Matt at Smiles Dentistry for Kids in Overland Park, KS. Call (913) 685-9990 or message us online today.

Smiles Dentistry For Kids

14700 Metcalf Ave, Suite 110
Overland Park, KS 66223
(913) 685-9990
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm

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Granted, virtually nothing matches the cuteness of a newborn’s toothless smile. Just wait until their first few teeth debut. Typically, a baby’s first tooth emerges between 6 months and a year. By age 3, most children have a complete smile consisting of 20 baby teeth.

But what can you do if your baby’s teeth are coming in crooked or gapped? Should you visit an orthodontist right away? Before you start daydreaming about your little one in braces, continue reading to learn what Dr. Matt has to say about misaligned baby teeth:

What causes crooked or gapped teeth?

People are rarely born with perfect teeth. There is a wide range of reasons why your child might have misalignment, such as:

Genetics

Children inherit their physical traits from both of their parents. So, it’s not uncommon for kids to have a set of jaws and teeth that don’t match up. For instance, a child may be born with a wide jaw from one parent and tiny teeth from another (or the other way around).

Oral Habits

Even in the womb, babies suck on their thumbs and fingers as a healthy way to self-soothe. However, prolonged oral sucking habits and extended pacifier use exert unnecessary pressure on the palate and upper front teeth. Consequently, the upper arch might narrow, or the front teeth might protrude, leading to several bite issues, including open bite and crossbite.

Myofunctional Disorders

Does your child sleep with their mouth open? Myofunctional (muscle function) disorders, like mouth breathing and tongue thrust, can inhibit facial development. Although muscle-based, myofunctional disorders can damage dental development and lead to malocclusion (bad bite) or crooked teeth.

Losing Baby Teeth Too Early

While shedding baby teeth is a natural part of growing up, premature loss of baby teeth can lead to negative consequences. Whether your child has lost a tooth from injury or decay, the neighboring teeth tend to shift into the space where the missing tooth once was.

Not only can this cause crooked teeth, but it can also obstruct the path needed for an adult tooth to come in straight (or at all). Thus, presenting the issue of misaligned permanent teeth as well.

Abnormal Amount of Teeth

Albeit rare, sometimes extra or inadequate teeth cause crowding, spacing issues, and general misalignment.

Does it matter if your child’s baby teeth are crooked or gapped?

Generally, it doesn’t matter if your child’s teeth don’t come in perfectly. Plus, crooked or gapped baby teeth don’t automatically translate as a misaligned adult smile.

Throughout childhood, your kid will go through changes—and the most significant changes in their jaw and mouth happen between the ages of 3 and 6. These natural changes will alter the position of their baby teeth, and your little one’s crowding might disappear as your child’s jaw widens.

Surprisingly, gaps between baby teeth can be positive. Permanent teeth are more sizeable and need more space to erupt properly. So, gaps help give permanent teeth extra space, so they don’t remain trapped beneath the gums.

Nevertheless, if you’re worried about your child’s baby teeth, you should schedule a dental visit with Dr. Matt at Smiles Dentistry for Kids. Call (913) 685-9990 or message us online to schedule a children’s dentistry appointment in Overland Park, KS.

Smiles Dentistry For Kids

14700 Metcalf Ave, Suite 110
Overland Park, KS 66223
(913) 685-9990
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