Smiles Dentistry 4 Kids

Top 10 Q&A About Dentistry for Kids

Dental care for infants and children can seem overwhelming but having a knowledgeable and helpful pediatric dentist on your team can make everything much simpler! A great pediatric dentist is passionate about three things: dental care, children, and patient education. This trifecta ensures that the dentist you choose will care for your little one’s oral development just as much as you do AND have the tools to teach you everything you need to know.

Our pediatric dentist, Dr. Matt, certainly meets the standard of a great pediatric dentist. For this reason, he is the go-to guy for so many parents in the Overland Park area.

Here are some of the most frequent questions he receives from concerned and caring parents every day:

1. How do I best clean my baby’s teeth?

Your baby’s teeth should be cleaned as soon as they erupt. Simply use a clean, damp washcloth, finger brush, or gauze pad to wipe the top, front, and back of the new teeth and the tip of the tongue. This should be done after meals and at bedtime.

You may also use a pediatric-dentist-approved baby toothbrush with a rice-grain-sized amount of toothpaste. These toothbrushes are extremely soft and have no more than three rows of bristles. Toothbrushes or finger brushes that are more than two months old should be thrown out and replaced.

2. How old should my baby be before I introduce her to fluoride toothpaste?

As soon as the first tooth emerges! Dentists used to recommend waiting until age two, but new discoveries have changed that fact. As stated in question one, you’ll only use a rice-grain-sized smear of toothpaste until your baby reaches three years of age.

3. How do I keep my kid’s teeth healthy?

For children above age three, follow these guidelines:

Brush with fluoride toothpaste in the morning and evening
Floss daily
Reduce sugar in their diet
Drink lots of water
Visit a pediatric dentist regularly

To receive more detailed oral health tips, visit a pediatric dentist who can evaluate your child’s mouth and determine his specific oral health needs.

4. What should I do if my child has a toothache?

If your child is complaining about tooth pain, first rinse the area with warm saltwater. Then, place a cold compress on the side of the face where the pain is (especially if it’s swollen). If necessary, give him or her children’s pain medication. Be sure to follow the dosage instructions on the bottle. Finally, contact your pediatric dentist.

If your child is experiencing a fever, bleeding, or other concerning symptoms along with the toothache, contact your pediatric dentist immediately for an emergency visit.

5. How are thumb sucking and pacifier habits harmful?

Fortunately, most children stop these habits on their own so they don’t pose any problems. However, if your child still sucks his thumb or uses a pacifier past age three, you may need the help of a pediatric dentist to avoid oral development problems such as:

Misalignment
Overbite or underbite
A lisp
Sensitivity or changes to the roof of their mouth

6. At what age should a child brush their own teeth?

Most children learn to brush their teeth around age six. However, as the parent, you know your child best! It’s never too early to begin teaching your child to brush his own teeth. Just remember to oversee and assist him until you’re confident he’s doing it correctly.

7. When should my child receive their first dental exam?

At least six months after their first tooth emerges. The pediatric dentist will check to make sure everything is developing properly and give you tips on how to care for your child’s mouth.

8. What should I expect on our first visit?

Your child’s first visit to the dentist usually lasts between 20 and 40 minutes. It will be very laidback and simple. Not every dentist is the same, but here’s what our first-time patient experience includes:

Office tour
Meeting the dentist and team members
Reviewing your child’s dental and medical history
Discussion about healthy teeth and jaw development
Review of your oral healthcare routine
An oral exam
A conversation about your child’s oral health needs

If appropriate, the pediatric dentist may suggest a dental cleaning.

9. How frequently should a baby see the dentist?

Infants, toddlers, adolescents, and adults should all visit the dentist every six months. This is the best way to prevent cavities and other dental problems.

In some cases, your pediatric dentist may recommend more frequent visits.

10. What’s the difference between a pediatric dentist and a family dentist?

Pediatric dentists are to dentistry what pediatricians are to medicine. Pediatric dentists complete two to three years of specialty training that makes them experts on children’s oral health development. Family dentists treat patients of all ages, including children, but without the same training.

To meet with our pediatric dentist for specific advice about your child’s mouth, call (913) 685-9990 today.

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How often do kids need dental exams and cleanings?

Choosing a pediatric dentist is extremely important. A good pediatric dentist is passionate about helping children, treats your family like their own, and offers comprehensive gentle dental care. At Smiles Dentistry for Kids, we do just that (and more)!

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, children should visit the dentist every six months to prevent tooth decay and other oral health problems. These visits begin right after your child’s first tooth erupts. In some cases, the pediatric dentist may recommend more frequent visits.

To schedule your child’s first visit with Dr. Matt, call (913) 685-9990 today.

Regular dental exams and cleanings do more than just keep your child’s mouth clean, continue reading to learn all the benefits of these appointments.

Relationships are developed.

Children thrive on familiarity. When parents choose and stick with a pediatric dentist, the dental team builds a trusting relationship with the child. Imagine your child looking forward to their dental checkup! That’s the goal at Smiles Dentistry for Kids. We want your child to feel welcome, known, and valued each time he or she visits.

This is especially helpful in a dental emergency. While everything else may seem chaotic, you and your child will find relief know exactly where to go and what to expect.

Parents also feel much more comfortable asking questions about their child’s mouth when they know and trust their child’s dentist.

Oral health records are kept.

As your child grows and develops, so will his teeth. A pediatric dentist will track your child’s oral development to predict and try to avoid any potential dental problems.

In the event of an emergency or if a painful dental disorder arises, the dental team will have immediate access to records of your child’s dental history, health, and jaw development for reference.

Children learn good habits.

Pediatric dentists are great at teaching kids how to properly care for their teeth at home. If you’re having a tough time getting your child to brush or floss properly, let your pediatric dentist help! A deep understanding of oral health and passion for children makes for a great teacher.

Eventually (and all too soon!) your child will be scheduling his own dental exams and cleanings. If you prioritize your child’s oral health now, he is much more likely to keep up with it when he is out on his own.

Parents are educated.

First-time parents especially need to be taught how to properly care for their child’s teeth. While Google can be helpful, you won’t get personalized advice like you can get from the dentist himself. Your pediatric dentist will teach you about the following:

Proper brushing techniques
Proper flossing technique
Fluoride use
Healthy thumb, finger, and pacifier habits
Healthy snacking habits
Dental sealants and other preventive measures

Another benefit of getting the advice in person? You can ask all your questions and voice all your concerns, and you’ll receive immediate answers.

Dental problems are addressed quickly.

Regular dental exams and cleanings allow for the early detection of oral health problems like tooth decay or misalignment. The pediatric dentist can then use more cost-effective and conservative treatments to address the problem. In the long run, these appointments could save your child from lots of pain and discomfort AND save you from breaking the bank!

To learn more about our practice or to schedule an appointment for your child, call (913) 685-9990.

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Kids' Dentist, Kids' Health, Pediatric dentist

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

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Pediatric Dentist in Overland Park, KS, Explains Palatal Expanders for Kids

Pediatric dentist

Ask a Pediatric Dentist in Overland Park, KS: Is It Normal for My Baby to Have Gaps Between Her Teeth?

Pediatric Dentist Answers: Why is flossing important?

Many parents ask the question: if my child’s teeth aren’t permanent, how important is it for him to floss? To which we answer: extremely! Your child’s baby teeth aren’t just taking up space until they fall out, they allow your child to chew, speak, and smile properly. Without proper oral hygiene, these functions can be impaired.

Baby teeth also hold space in the jaws for developing permanent teeth. When a baby tooth falls out too early because of decay or trauma, the permanent teeth are more likely to come in crooked. While using floss won’t help fight against trauma, it will remove food particles and bacteria from the hardest to reach places to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.

Because of this, pediatric dentists like Dr. Matt and the American Dental Association recommend teaching children to floss when they have two teeth that touch.

In addition to the reasons mentioned above, teaching your child to floss now will set him or her up for oral and overall health success in the future!

Here are five surprising benefits of dental floss:

1. Reduces bad breath

This is probably a little less shocking but flossing also reduces bad breath. If you’ve noticed your child constantly has bad breath despite good brushing habits, give floss a try!

Allowing tartar to remain on your teeth is like your child leaving a glass of unfinished milk under his bed– over time, it will make itself known (and you’ll probably be the first one to smell it!).

Have your child floss regularly for a week and see if you notice an improvement. If not, contact your pediatric dentist for an appointment.

2. Prevents gingivitis

Flossing removes plaque buildup on the gum line that leads to gingivitis. The first sign of gingivitis (which is the first stage of gum disease) is bleeding gums. However, don’t be alarmed if your child’s gums bleed the first few times he flosses– this is normal.

If your child’s bleeding gums are also red and swollen, a trip to your pediatric dentist may be necessary.

3. Reduces risk of heart disease

Heart disease is often associated with gingivitis. Bleeding gums opens the pathway for bacteria to enter into the bloodstream and attack the heart. This may result in heart disease or blood clots. Daily flossing is one of the best ways to reduce the risk of heart disease (especially in men).

You probably aren’t worried about your child developing heart disease now, but in twenty years, you’ll be glad you taught him how to floss.

4. Controls diabetes

As surprising as it sounds, flossing and diabetes have something in common– oral bacteria. For children and adults with diabetes, the removal of oral bacteria with dental floss actually helps stabilize glucose levels.

To experience this benefit, consistency is key. Be sure to floss at least once a day to eliminate as much bacteria as possible.

5. Reduces risk of pulmonary disease

When our mouths are healthy, the rest of the body benefits. This is because the mouth is a direct channel to the other organs in the body, including the respiratory system. Sometimes, the oral bacteria in our mouths find their way into the lungs and can lead to bronchitis and pneumonia.

However, this only happens when there are large amounts of bad bacteria in our mouths. Dental floss is a sure way to limit the number of disease-causing bacteria.

Types of floss

There are several types of floss to choose from:

Flavored floss
Dental tape
Monofilament floss
Floss pick
Waxed and unwaxed floss

It doesn’t matter which one you choose as long as you do choose one!

Flossing for fun

Teaching your child good oral hygiene habits is no easy task, but it can be done! Check out this blog to learn how to floss properly and ways to make it enjoyable for your little one.

Along with brushing and flossing, be sure to schedule regular dental appointments with a pediatric dentist near you to keep your child’s smile bright and healthy.

To schedule an appointment at our kid-friendly dental office, call (913) 685-9990 today.

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Kids' Dentist, Kids' Health, Pediatric dentist

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

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Pediatric dentist

Ask a Pediatric Dentist in Overland Park, KS: Is It Normal for My Baby to Have Gaps Between Her Teeth?

Dental Care Tips for Parents: Preparing for the First Visit

Did you know that your child should visit the dentist at least six months after his or her first tooth erupts? Whether you’re right on time or a little late, the important thing is that you are preparing your little one for their first visit to the dentist now.

For that, we want to say thank you! Thank you for prioritizing your child’s oral health. Regular visits to the dentist promote the healthy development of a child’s teeth and gums which is crucial to helping them maintain a healthy smile for the rest of their lives. And it all starts with their first visit.

To help your child prepare for their first dental visit, try these five helpful tips:

1. Schedule at An Appropriate Time

Most children are happiest right after they wake up. For this reason, scheduling an appointment in the morning or after naptime is extremely beneficial for all parties involved. A happy child makes the dental appointment much easier on the parents and the dental team. Your child will also be well-rested so you don’t have to worry about him falling asleep during the appointment.

Bonus tip: Try to show up a little early to give your child time to explore the waiting room filled with toys, games, and bright colors. This will make him feel comfortable right away!

2. Read Dental-Themed Books (Or Watch TV Shows)

Most children’s authors and TV shows have a book or episode about a character’s first visit to the dentist. Books with pictures are a great way for your child to see what a dentist’s office looks like and hear about the character’s positive experience, and a TV show can help him acclimate to the sounds of a dentist’s office.

Check out these seven picture books to get your kid ready for the dentist. These tv shows also that have an episode about visiting the dentist: Peppa Pig, Arthur, and Bubble Guppies.

3. Use Positive Language

Unfortunately, it’s very rare to hear someone speak positively about visiting the dentist. This shouldn’t be the case for your little one. Be sure to share stories about the good experiences you’ve had at the dentist and explain all the ways dentists are beneficial.

Here are four major benefits of visiting the dentist regularly:

Keeping teeth strong and beautiful
Preventing bad breath
Preventing cavities
Creating good habits

If your child is too young to understand these reasons, remember that tone of voice can tell your child a lot about a person or place. Make the dentist office a place to be excited about!

4. Bring Comfort Items

At this point, your child has probably been to the doctor quite a few times so you know exactly what he needs to feel safe. Of course, you’ll be with your child during the entire dental visit, but feel free to bring along a favorite stuffed animal or toy to make your child feel even more at home.

5. Prepare A Reward

If your little one seems overly anxious about the first visit, promise a simple reward once it’s over. This can be anything from ice cream to a visit to the park. You know what your child loves best!

Whatever the reward, your child will have something else to look forward to during the appointment. It may even take his mind off anything that’s making him nervous during the visit.

For the First Visit, Choose the Right Dentist

Selecting an experienced pediatric dentist is the best way to ensure your child has a positive first visit to the dentist. Remember, their first dental visit will have a long-lasting impression, so make it a good one!

Our pediatric dentist, Dr. Matt, is one of the best around! To schedule an appointment for your little one, call 913-685-9990 today.

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

Pediatric dentist

Pediatric Dentist in Overland Park, KS, Explains Palatal Expanders for Kids

Pediatric dentist

Ask a Pediatric Dentist in Overland Park, KS: Is It Normal for My Baby to Have Gaps Between Her Teeth?

Dental Care Tips for Parents: Teaching Kids to Floss

The responsibilities of parenting are great, but also rewarding. As parents, we are responsible for teaching our kids how to clean up after themselves, feed themselves, and maintain good hygiene. Oral care is a huge part of an effective hygiene routine. Most parents do a great job of teaching their children how to brush properly, but flossing tends to be more difficult.

Children can begin flossing their own teeth at age seven or eight, but it’s never too early to teach them! In fact, you should start teaching your child to floss when he or she has two teeth that touch one another.

In this blog, Dr. Matt gives dental care tips that will help make flossing simple and enjoyable for your little one!

Before we begin, we should answer: Why is flossing important?

Brushing is obviously the first line of defense against decay, bad breath, and gum disease, but flossing is a close second. Dental floss gets to the parts of the mouth that toothbrushes can’t.

Food and plaque love to hide between teeth and along the gum line. If not removed by flossing, cavities or gum disease may develop.

Now that you know the “why”, let’s get to the “how”.

Proper Flossing Technique

Dental floss comes in two types: traditional dental floss and dental floss picks. The technique you use will depend on which type of floss you and your child choose.

Traditional Floss

Break off about 18 inches of floss and have your child wrap most of it around one finger (usually the pointer) on the left or right hand. He or she will wind the rest of the floss around one finger on the other hand (just make sure it’s not too tight!). The finger with the most amount of floss will release between each tooth and the other will collect the used floss.

Have your child take the floss up one side of the tooth and down the other side making sure to get along the gum line of both the top and bottom teeth.

Repeat this between each pair of teeth.

Dental Floss Picks

Many children (and even many adults) prefer to use dental floss picks. Honestly, they are easier, but they aren’t quite as effective as regular floss. For adults, we would suggest using traditional floss, but picks are still a great option for kids who have a more difficult time with traditional floss.

Dental floss picks are either harp- or Y-shaped. Simply run the floss up and down the teeth like you would with traditional floss. Rinse off the floss between teeth and switch the pick when the floss looks worn.

How to Make Flossing Fun

If you’re struggling to get your child to floss, here are three ways to make it enjoyable:

Do it together! Put on some fun music, make silly faces in the mirror, and get to flossing. Your child will love spending extra time with you (and will hopefully enjoy flossing too!).
Use a reward system. A flossing chart is a great way to encourage your child to floss daily. Each time your child flosses, put a sticker on the chart. For every five consecutive days he or she flosses, offer a reward of some sort—we’ll let you decide what that is!
Let them choose the floss. Before teaching your child to floss, take him to the store to pick out the type and flavor of floss he wants to use. Flossing with their favorite color or a tasty flavor is a great incentive.

Another Dental Care Tip

Along with brushing and flossing, your child should visit a pediatric dentist every six months for a dental cleaning and exam. Contact a pediatric dentist near you today to schedule an appointment.

To meet with Dr. Matt or for additional dental care tips, call (913) 685-9990.

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Kids' Dentist, Kids' Health, Pediatric dentist

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

Pediatric dentist

Pediatric Dentist in Overland Park, KS, Explains Palatal Expanders for Kids

Pediatric dentist

Ask a Pediatric Dentist in Overland Park, KS: Is It Normal for My Baby to Have Gaps Between Her Teeth?

Children’s Dentist Explains: The Effects of Sugar on Your Child’s Teeth

If you’re like us, sugar is the main ingredient in some of your favorite foods—cookies, pie, ICE CREAM. But did you know sugar is also hidden in unsuspected places like ketchup, fruit-flavored yogurt, spaghetti sauce, granola bars, and canned soup? It’s easy for parents to limit their child’s sugar intake when it comes to desserts and candy, but when sugar is hidden in seemingly healthy foods, planning snacks and meals can get tricky.

According to the American Heart Association, children between two and 18 should eat no more than 25 grams of sugar a day. Consuming more than this can harm your child’s oral and overall health.

In this blog, we will show you the impact sugar has on your child’s teeth, how to spot hidden sugars in foods and snacks, and healthier alternatives to sugary foods.

If you’ve noticed that your little one has more cavities than you think he should, or his gums are red and puffy, contact our children’s dentist today to schedule a regular dental cleaning and exam.

Sugar vs. Teeth

In our mouths are billions of bacteria. Good oral hygiene habits, eating healthy, and regular dental cleanings keep the bad bacteria from over-powering the healthy bacteria.

When a person (young or old) consumes sugar, the harmful bacteria in our mouths turn the sugar into acid that causes enamel to soften, then eats away at the enamel on our teeth. As the harmful bacteria spread and overpowers the healthy pH in saliva, our mouths become much more susceptible to cavities and gum disease.

Sugar vs. Body

Along with causing oral health problems, too much sugar is linked to childhood obesity and malnutrition. In turn, these an unhealthy consumption of sugar can lead to diabetes, a weakened immune system, and a lack of energy.

Sugar is also known to cause brain fog, which can make focusing in school more difficult for children.

Sugar in Disguise

Remember that line from Romeo and Juliet? “What’s in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet. “

This same concept applies to sugar. No matter what we call it, sugar has the same effect.

To help you spot hidden sugars, check for these names on food labels:

High fructose corn syrup
Rice syrup
Any other kind of syrup
Agave nectar
Honey
Fruit juice concentrate
Evaporated can juice
100% fruit juice
The suffix “-ose” (fructose, sucrose, dextrose, lactose, maltose, glucose)

Another way to spot hidden sugars is by checking the “added sugar” line on the food label.

Healthy Alternatives

Beginning a new food journey can be overwhelming. To lessen your stress and show you how doable lowering your child’s sugar intake is, we’ve compiled a list of delicious, healthy, low-sugar snacks that your child will love!

Celery and cream cheese
String cheese
Popcorn
Pretzels
Guacamole and pita wedges
Hard-boiled eggs
Zucchini chips
Parmesan fries
Sweet potato chips
Pepper nachos

Check out this blog to learn about portion sizes, how to prepare these snacks, and other snack ideas.

Other ways to limit your child’s sugar intake include:

Limiting juice and soft drinks – choose water!
Keeping candy out of the home
Only making desserts on special occasions

Visit a Children’s Dentist

One of the most effective ways to combat tooth decay is to visit the dentist regularly. Your child’s first dental appointment should be scheduled as soon as the first tooth erupts. He or she should attend regular dental cleaning and exams every six months following the first appointment.

Schedule a dental cleaning and exam with Dr. Matt today by calling 913-685-9990.

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

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Pediatric Dentist in Overland Park, KS, Explains Palatal Expanders for Kids

Pediatric dentist

Ask a Pediatric Dentist in Overland Park, KS: Is It Normal for My Baby to Have Gaps Between Her Teeth?

10 Questions for Your Pediatric Dentist

For healthy teeth and gums, regular dental visits are essential—especially for children! Using proper brushing and flossing techniques at home is great, but nothing beats the thorough cleaning that only happens at the dentist’s office. Keeping your child’s mouth clean is important for their overall health.

So, if you’re getting ready to take your child in for a regular dental cleaning and exam, check out these common questions parents have for their child’s pediatric dentist.

For more detailed information, ask our team at Smiles Dentistry 4 Kids during your child’s appointment.

1. Why do baby teeth matter?

Even though baby teeth don’t last forever, they serve some pretty important purposes. Baby teeth help your child move from mushy baby food to solid foods that supports good nutrition. They help your child speak clearly and support their jawbone until the permanent teeth develop.

2. How often should my child visit the dentist?

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, children should have their first dental visit as soon as their first tooth erupts and every six months after that. These visits will help track your child’s dental development, prevent tooth decay, and inform you about ways to best care for your child’s teeth.

By attending these regular dental appointments, you will be setting your child up for oral health success when he or she gets older!

3. Should I brush my baby’s teeth?

Absolutely! As soon as your baby’s first tooth erupts, you can use a soft-bristled, child-sized toothbrush and toothpaste to clean his or her tooth. Use toothpaste that is recommended by your pediatric dentist, follow the instructions, and make sure your child does not swallow excess toothpaste.

4. Will thumb-sucking hurt my baby’s dental development?

Before age three, thumb-sucking shouldn’t be a problem. However, it can become a problem if your child continues to suck on his or her thumb after their third birthday.

Talk to your dentist about the best ways to wean your child off thumb-sucking (or using a pacifier).

5. How much fluoride is safe for my child?

Fluoride can be found in most tap water sources and toothpaste. As long as these are your child’s only sources of fluoride, there shouldn’t be a problem.

In fact, as soon as your child’s first tooth erupts, you should use fluoride toothpaste (albeit, an amount the size of a grain of rice) to brush it.

Stay away from fluoridated mouthwash until your dentist recommends it or your child is more than six years old.

As long as you follow these guidelines (and recommendations from your dentist) your child shouldn’t experience any negative effects of fluoride. However, if you notice a change in the appearance ofyour child’s teeth, talk to your dentist or healthcare provider.

6. How do I keep my child from being afraid of the dentist?

The best thing you can do is talk about the dentist in a positive way. Many adults are afraid of the dentist and pass that fear on to their child. This can make pediatric dental appointments difficult for both of you.

You can also find books or tv shows about the character’s first dental appointment, promise your child a treat after the appointment, or tell him or her a positive story about a time you went to the dentist.

Hopefully, the pediatric dentist and dental team you’ve chosen also help make going to the dentist fun for your little one.

7. Are dental x-rays safe?

X-rays are one of the most important parts of the diagnosis process. To keep your child safe, and lower the risk of radiation exposure, your dentist will use protective gear, keep up with the latest technology, and follow American Dental Association guidelines.

These things make the risk of radiation exposure almost nonexistent. It is actually much riskier to leave a dental problem undetected than it is to have an x-ray.

8. Are dental sealants worth it?

Dental sealants are a thin coating that protects your child’s back teeth from cavities for up to four years. This will save you time and money in the long run. We’d say that’s worth it!

9. How is a pediatric dentist different from a family dentist?

Pediatric dentists are specially trained to treat and care for children from infancy to adolescence. Family dentists typically receive a more general education so that they can treat patients of all ages.

In addition, pediatric dentists design their offices specifically for children to feel comfortable. Their goal is to create a fun and educational environment that children enjoy coming to.

10. How can I help my child avoid baby bottle tooth decay?

Baby bottle tooth decay is the leading cause of tooth loss in infants. To protect your baby’s teeth, follow these guidelines:

Clean your baby’s gums with a washcloth or gauze pad after feeding
Make sure he or she is getting enough fluoride
Brush the baby’s new teeth
Schedule regular dental visits

Ready to meet with your pediatric dentist? Call today to schedule an appointment for your little one!

To meet with Dr. Matt at Smiles Dentistry 4 Kids, contact our friendly team today at 913-685-9990.

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Kids' Dentist, Kids' Health, Pediatric dentist

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

Pediatric dentist

Pediatric Dentist in Overland Park, KS, Explains Palatal Expanders for Kids

Pediatric dentist

Ask a Pediatric Dentist in Overland Park, KS: Is It Normal for My Baby to Have Gaps Between Her Teeth?

Dental Care for Kids: Awesome Stocking Stuffers

Can you believe Christmas is right around the corner? If you’re a parent, one of the best things about Christmas is the look on your child’s face as he or she opens presents and discovers their stocking stuffer goodies. If you’re here, you are probably looking for some alternative ideas to candy and other typical stocking stuffers. We’ve got you covered!

Check out this list of great stocking stuffer ideas that make dental care for kids a priority and help your child look forward to their oral hygiene routine.

1. A toothbrush

What better time to get your child a super-fun toothbrush than Christmas? Whether your child likes Batman, My Little Pony, or something in between, you can find a toothbrush they will enjoy using every morning and evening. Toothbrushes that sing and electrical toothbrushes are great for helping kids effectively brush their teeth.

You can find the perfect toothbrush for your child on Amazon!

2. Tasty dental products

Bubblegum, fruity, and sweet-flavored toothpaste, floss, and mouthwash will be an exciting change for a child who isn’t a fan of minty dental products—just make sure they don’t swallow it!

When choosing a toothpaste or mouthwash for your child, keep these things in mind:

Choose products that contain fluoride
Look for the ADA Seal of Approval
If your child is under two, check with your dentist about which types of toothpaste to use
Children under six shouldn’t use mouthwash

3. Healthy snacks

We know you will probably throw some chocolate, sour candy, or hard candies into your child’s stocking, but you can add more variety with these delicious and nutritious treats:

Raisins
Nuts
Sugar-free gum

Maintain Healthy Smiles Year-Round

These stocking stuffers will not only bring joy to your children, they will also set them up for success when it comes to their oral (and overall!) health. With their new toothbrush and toothpaste, teach them how to properly care for their teeth with a fun and effective oral hygiene routine.

This routine should include:

Brushing: Teach your child to brush for at least one minute in the morning or evening. He or she should use small circles to brush all sides of each tooth. If you bought your child a singing toothbrush, the song should end when your child should stop brushing! This is such a fun way to keep your child brushing. (Don’t forget to join in on the fun by brushing your teeth at the same time or singing along with the toothbrush!)
Flossing: Children should begin flossing as soon as their teeth fit close together (so, as young as two). This will probably require some help from you in the beginning. You can make flossing more fun by creating a story about the hero (the floss) who saves the teeth from the “plaque monster” that hide between teeth.
Mouthwash: For children over the age of six, now is the time to put that tasty mouthwash to use! Take part in this oral hygiene habit with your own mouthwash and make silly faces while you both swish the mouthwash around in your mouths. After one minute, have a silly-face contest to see who can make the other spit it out faster! Disclaimer: this can be messy, but it’s so worth it!

One of the most important parts of maintaining your child’s oral health is visiting the dentist every six months. After the busyness of the holidays is over, contact your pediatric dentist to schedule an appointment.

To visit our Overland Park children’s dentist, contact us today at (913) 685-9990.

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Kids' Dentist, Kids' Health, Pediatric dentist

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

Pediatric dentist

Pediatric Dentist in Overland Park, KS, Explains Palatal Expanders for Kids

Pediatric dentist

Ask a Pediatric Dentist in Overland Park, KS: Is It Normal for My Baby to Have Gaps Between Her Teeth?

How to Find the Right Children’s Dentist Near Me

Kids are smart. The experience your children have at the dentist’s office today will affect how they feel about dentists for the rest of their lives. Unfortunately, a lot of adults hate dentists – that’s a fact. They’re scared of us.

Our goal is to change that for future generations.

When you and your kids visit Dr. Matt, you’ll have fun. Yes, you’ll have fun at the dentist’s office!

Just because all pediatric dentists are educated on the intricacies of children’s dental care doesn’t mean that we’re all alike. If you’re looking for a great experience for your little ones, read this blog. You’ll learn 5 key questions to ask when interviewing a potential dentist for your children.

To find the best children’s dentist near you:

1. Check Google reviews.

By simply typing “children’s dentist near me Overland Park, KS” in Google, a list of pediatric dentists near you will appear. Each one should have Google Reviews, accessible from their website or their Google Map profile. Under the 3-4 dentists listed with the map, click See More. That will show you all the children’s dentists in the area.

Read through the Google Reviews and make a list of the dental offices you are most interested in.

Google reviews like this one will lead you to the right dentist for your child:

“This was our first visit to Smiles Dentistry and they were truly fantastic! Check in was quick and we had very little wait before my kids were taken back. Everything was fast, professional, efficient and perfectly suited for my kids. This is not a dental factory but a place where your child will be known and treated by amazing dental assistants and by Dr. Matt.” -Kara Martin

2. Check out the website.

You may think all dental office websites look alike, but each one has specific info parents need to check out, like:

The dentist’s educational background
Services provided
Payment/financing/insurance info
Special offers for new patients

Dr. Matt offers free exams and cleanings for children under two years old. He is highly respected in the area as a pediatric dentist, and his education is outlined on our website. Dr. Matt and our team undergo continuing education each year as well, so we’re always learning new ways to bring you the best that pediatric dentistry has to offer.

3. Schedule an introductory visit.

You can tell a lot from a first impression. Though it takes some time, visiting the dentist’s office gives you a chance to meet the dentist in person, as well as the team, and you’ll experience the office environment firsthand.

Your child’s opinion of the dentist, team, and office mean a lot. If a child doesn’t like the dentist or office, you’ll have a tough time encouraging him or her to be positive about appointments.

A child’s first visit to the dentist should include:

A tour
Meeting the dentist
Meeting the team
A discussion of your child’s dental and medical history
A discussion about the development of your child’s teeth and jaw
Reviewing your home hygiene routine
A dental cleaning (if the child is age appropriate)
An oral exam
A discussion of the dentist’s findings and recommendations

First visits typically last between 20 and 40 minutes. Schedule your child’s first appointment with Dr. Matt here.

4. Get a feel for the dentist and team.

After the first visit, ask yourself these questions:

Did I feel welcome, respected, and did I have fun?
Was my child comfortable with the dentist and team?
Did I understand and appreciate the advice the dentist offered?
Was the dentist more interested in providing proactive treatments or reactive treatments?

Dr. Matt and our team work hard to create an environment that feels safe, inviting, and fun for children of all ages. Dr. Matt also prioritizes preventative care to help your child gain and maintain a healthy smile for years to come.

5. Pull the trigger.

In our opinion, the most important qualities a dentist can have is a great education, a love for kids and parents, and a welcoming, homey office environment. You should trust your dentist’s opinion and always feel that he or she has your child’s best interests in mind.

We believe our team at Smiles Dentistry 4 Kids is the best choice for a children’s dentist in Overland Park, KS. Contact us today to schedule your child’s first dental appointment.

"*" indicates required fields

Kids' Dentist, Kids' Health, Pediatric dentist

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

Pediatric dentist

Pediatric Dentist in Overland Park, KS, Explains Palatal Expanders for Kids

Pediatric dentist

Ask a Pediatric Dentist in Overland Park, KS: Is It Normal for My Baby to Have Gaps Between Her Teeth?

	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

	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

	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

	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

	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

1. How do I best clean my baby’s teeth?

2. How old should my baby be before I introduce her to fluoride toothpaste?

3. How do I keep my kid’s teeth healthy?

4. What should I do if my child has a toothache?

5. How are thumb sucking and pacifier habits harmful?

6. At what age should a child brush their own teeth?

7. When should my child receive their first dental exam?

8. What should I expect on our first visit?

9. How frequently should a baby see the dentist?

10. What’s the difference between a pediatric dentist and a family dentist?

Smiles Dentistry For Kids

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Relationships are developed.

Oral health records are kept.

Children learn good habits.

Parents are educated.

Dental problems are addressed quickly.

Smiles Dentistry For Kids

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1. Reduces bad breath

2. Prevents gingivitis

3. Reduces risk of heart disease

4. Controls diabetes

5. Reduces risk of pulmonary disease

Types of floss

Flossing for fun

Smiles Dentistry For Kids

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1. Schedule at An Appropriate Time

2. Read Dental-Themed Books (Or Watch TV Shows)

3. Use Positive Language

4. Bring Comfort Items

5. Prepare A Reward

For the First Visit, Choose the Right Dentist

Smiles Dentistry For Kids

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Before we begin, we should answer: Why is flossing important?

Proper Flossing Technique

Traditional Floss

Dental Floss Picks

How to Make Flossing Fun

Another Dental Care Tip

Smiles Dentistry For Kids

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Sugar vs. Teeth

Sugar vs. Body

Sugar in Disguise

Healthy Alternatives

Visit a Children’s Dentist

Smiles Dentistry For Kids

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1. Why do baby teeth matter?

2. How often should my child visit the dentist?

3. Should I brush my baby’s teeth?

4. Will thumb-sucking hurt my baby’s dental development?

5. How much fluoride is safe for my child?

6. How do I keep my child from being afraid of the dentist?

7. Are dental x-rays safe?

8. Are dental sealants worth it?

9. How is a pediatric dentist different from a family dentist?

10. How can I help my child avoid baby bottle tooth decay?

Smiles Dentistry For Kids

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1. A toothbrush

2. Tasty dental products

3. Healthy snacks

Maintain Healthy Smiles Year-Round

Smiles Dentistry For Kids

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1. Check Google reviews.

2. Check out the website.

3. Schedule an introductory visit.

4. Get a feel for the dentist and team.

5. Pull the trigger.

Smiles Dentistry For Kids

Get in Touch