Category: Holiday

February marks National Children’s Dental Health Month, sponsored by the American Dental Association. This year’s theme is “Healthy Habits for Healthy Smiles!” It’s a great time to teach kids the best ways to care for their teeth, including visits to their pediatric dentist in Overland Park, KS. 

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids, we celebrate children’s dental health every day. But this month in particular, we are committed to educating kids and families alike regarding the importance of good oral hygiene. Dr. Matt, Dr. Craven, and our entire team truly love working with children. Their enthusiasm and their smiles warm our hearts. And we love their receptivity to acquiring new habits that can protect their smiles for life. 

Celebrate this month by scheduling an appointment with a great pediatric dentist in Overland Park, KS. Contact us today!

National Children’s Dental Health Month

This year, children are encouraged to establish four good dental habits, described below. If you are looking for fun ways to incorporate this observance in your home, the ADA has activity sheets and coloring pages linked on their website. 

Brush Twice Daily

The first dental habit to establish is twice daily brushing. This should begin early, as soon as your child has their first tooth. Use a toothbrush with a small head and soft bristles. Fluoride toothpaste is perfectly safe – and, in fact, preferable! Just be sure to use the right amount. A smear no larger than a grain of rice is appropriate for children under three. For older children, use a drop the size of a pea.

Floss Once a Day

Flossing should begin early, too. As soon as your child has two teeth that touch, you should be cleaning between them. A floss stick may be helpful when your child is younger, since it gives you a free hand to keep their mouth open. Once your child is old enough, they should learn how to use traditional floss for themselves. 

Eat for a Healthy Smile

A good diet is not only important for healthy growth and development. It’s also essential for healthy teeth. Make sure your child is eating a wide variety of nutrients, including fruits and veggies, whole grains, lean proteins, yogurt, and cheese. 

Actually, juice is the main concern when it comes to children’s cavities. Children under age 

one shouldn’t drink juice, and it should be strictly limited after that.

Visit Your Pediatric Dentist in Overland Park, KS, Twice a Year

Dental visits also need to begin early. Once your child has at least one baby tooth, it’s time to see the dentist. At Smiles Dentistry for Kids, we are so committed to early dental hygiene that we offer free exams and cleanings before age 2. 

As children grow older, dental visits become even more essential. They can prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Your dentist can also spot early signs of orthodontic issues, often offering early treatment to reduce the severity of misalignment.

Contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids

This month, visit your pediatric dentist in Overland Park, KS. To schedule your appointment, contact us online or call (913) 685-9990.

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

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

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

Involved Dads Promote Better Health

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

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

The Power of Example 

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

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

The Role of Diet and Nutrition 

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

Contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids 

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

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

It’s hard to believe that it’s already November and Thanksgiving week! And while some of us are a little behind on our cooking, we are all ready to do what matters most – count our blessings and give thanks! At our pediatric dentistry office, we have so much to be thankful for! 

Dr. Matt and his team and Smiles Dentistry for Kids want to share the top 5 things for which we’re giving thanks this holiday. We hope that you and your family have a wonderful, joyous (and delicious!) Thanksgiving Day. 

And remember, we are always ready to provide you with outstanding dental care. If your child needs dental treatment or preventive services this holiday season, contact our Overland Park, KS, pediatric dentistry office right away!

#5 – A Great Place to Call Home

We are so thankful to be located in the beautiful city of Overland Park. With all the convenience of a big city and the charm of a small town, there is no shortage of things to do in our community. 

We are proud to be in the heart of it all at our location on Metcalf Avenue. Easily accessible off of Highway 69, we are just minutes from the Museum at Prairiefire, the Firefly Forest, and the Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead.

#4 – Digital Technology 

We know that parents want the best and safest treatment for their children. That is why we are so grateful that we can offer the reassurance of digital x-rays. This type of imaging involves up to 80% less radiation exposure than traditional x-rays. Plus, the pictures are sharper. And they can be more easily shared with parents so that they can play a more active role in their children’s dental health.

#3 – A Wonderful Office Family

We are so thankful to come to work every day with people whom we love like family. We feel supported by each other, and we truly feel that we work as a pediatric dentistry team. The smiles around our office are infectious, as we laugh and share each other’s joys and struggles. 

We want our patients and their parents to feel like members of our family. Our true affection for one another and our infectious smiles help to make everyone feel welcome.

#2 – The Opportunity to Do What We Love

Not everyone looks forward to going to work every morning. But we do – and for that we are so very thankful! It is such a gift to provide meaningful service, helping to lay a foundation of oral health for the youngest generation.

Pediatric dentistry poses a unique set of challenges. The energy is high, the wiggles can be vigorous, and the attention spans are often short. But we love it and are so thrilled that we have the opportunity to pursue our calling. 

#1 – Our Patients 

Without a doubt, our patients are the number one thing for which we are giving thanks this November. Kids are just so much fun, and we truly think that our patients are the best! We love getting to know each of them and their unique personalities. And we love getting to know their parents, too. 

So if you are one of our existing patients, thank you for trusting us with your child’s precious smile. And if you are looking for a pediatric dentistry home, we’d love to have you! 

Contact Your Pediatric Dentistry Office 

You make our practice what it is. Contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids to set up an appointment. 

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

Easter season is imminent! This means it’s a time for annual traditions, family time, and more. Indeed, it’s fine to indulge in chocolate or candy-filled eggs in moderation when paired with proper oral hygiene. 

However, the humble chicken egg is a superfood filled with vitamins, antioxidants, and nutrients. Whether you like your eggs fried, deviled, or scrambled, Dr. Matt cracks down six justifications for why eggs are an exceptional choice all year long.

Protein

While it’s crucial to consume an adequate amount of protein in your diet, it’s equally important to ensure that you are fueling with the correct type of protein. Eggs are a complete protein, containing nine essential amino acids that the human body needs to survive. 

For example, proteins are required in the body to help build and repair damaged or worn down tissues and muscles. This includes the connective tissues and our mouths, such as the tongue, the jaw muscles, and gums.

Phosphorus

Furthermore, protein (especially animal-based protein) contains a remarkable mineral called phosphorus. When combined with calcium and vitamin D, phosphorus plays a vital role in strengthening the teeth and bones.

Selenium

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, one to two eggs every morning can help your child reach their recommended dietary allowance for selenium. Even in small amounts, selenium supports many bodily processes. Also, an increase in this potent antioxidant has been linked to a decrease in cavities in children and young adults.

Calcium

Calcium is one of the most abundant minerals in the human body, and 99% of our body’s total calcium is stored in the bones and teeth. Specifically, calcium is responsible for: 

• Strengthening enamel (the protective outer shell of our teeth)
• Preventing dental decay
• Stabilizing the jaw bone, which keeps our teeth in place

Ideally, people should consume at least 1,000 mg of calcium daily, and eggs are a wonderful non-dairy source of calcium. The more calcium you consume, the stronger your teeth and bones will get. Likely, this translates to fewer cavities, less tooth damage, and other horrible dental issues.

Conversely, if a person does not get enough calcium in their diet, dental problems may occur, such as:

• Gingivitis and periodontal disease
• Brittle teeth
• Tooth decay

Vitamin B-12

Whole eggs are rich in vitamin B-12. Also known as cobalamin, vitamin-B-12 aids in red blood cell formation and cell metabolism. Regrettably, cobalamin deficiency can deteriorate oral health. B-12 deficiency has been coupled with various manifestations, including abnormal tongue and gum tissue.

Iron

Did you know that eggs are a great source of iron? Each egg contains 1.89 mg of iron, which helps keep the teeth and gums in tip-top shape.

However, when the body does not get enough iron, a person may develop anemia. Unfortunately, people who suffer from anemia are more prone to tooth decay and gum disease.

Is it time to book your child’s next dental appointment? If so, hop to it.

This weekend, let the Easter egg hunts commence! But don’t forget to indulge in your hard work by sitting down and cracking open a few eggs for a tooth-healthy treat. 

Contact our Overland Park, KS office if it’s time to schedule your child’s next kid’s dental appointment. Call us at (913) 685-9990, or send us a message online.

Some pediatric dentists believe that the tooth fairy is so honorable and impressive that she deserves recognition on February 28th and August 22nd. Since National Tooth Fairy Day is celebrated every six months, it serves as a clever reminder for parents to schedule their children’s twice-annual routine dental appointments. Until then, here are three ways to celebrate our favorite magical dental hygiene hero at home.

1. Learn about cultural practices related to lost baby teeth.

During the mid-1920s, American dentists and other oral health enthusiasts developed the idea of the tooth fairy to combat the anxiety and discomfort of losing teeth with the joy of accumulating cold hard cash. 

In a piece published in Salon, Michael Hingston stated that “Every recorded human culture has some kind of tradition surrounding the disposal of a child’s lost baby teeth.” So, here are a few tooth-related traditions from around the world:

Tales of Tooth-Collecting Creatures

While the tooth fairy is synonymous with bringing riches to sleeping children, countries around the world celebrate this milestone with creatures that “buy” children’s teeth from them with coins or gifts.

• Rodents: While this creature has many names, a tooth mouse visits children in many French and Spanish-speaking countries, some former and present British commonwealth countries, and some European countries.
• Tooth Troll: In Finland, opposite of the tooth fairy is the “Hammaspeikko,” which translates to “tooth troll.” Actually, this character serves as a metaphor for explaining cavities. According to folklore, the tooth troll is lured by candy and drills holes into the teeth. Thankfully, brushing scares him away!

Feeding Teeth to A Furry Friend

In Mongolia, children are encouraged to hide their lost baby teeth in meat fat and feed them to their dogs. Mongolian children participate in this practice hoping that their adult teeth with be as strong as the bone-eating dog’s teeth.

What do they do if they don’t have a dog? In this case, Mongolian children bury their teeth in the ground near a big tree so that their new teeth will have strong roots (like the tree).

2. Get creative with DIY tooth fairy projects.

For National Tooth Fairy Day, get festive with art projects the whole family can enjoy:

• Decorate a picture frame and show off a photo of your child’s toothless smile
• Draw or color a picture of the tooth fairy
• Write a letter to the tooth fairy
• Construct a pillow, pouch, or keepsake box (so that the tooth fairy can find missing teeth easily)
• Create a tooth fairy puppet and have your children direct a puppet show 

3. Encourage your kids to take care of their teeth.

Losing baby teeth is a normal part of childhood, but losing them too early can be a major health issue. Ideally, establishing healthy habits at a young age is intended to help children remain fit for the rest of their lives. Dr. Matt of Smiles for Kids Dentistry encourages parents to facilitate excellent oral health routines and habits, including:

• Brushing teeth with a soft toothbrush and toothpaste with fluoride (twice a day)
• Removing sneaky food particles and plaque between the teeth with floss
• Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and nutrients
• Visiting the dentist at least every six months (for routine cleaning and a checkup)

If it’s been over six months since your child’s last dental appointment, don’t wait any longer. Schedule your child’s next dental appointment in Overland Park, KS. Call (913) 685-9990 or message us online today.

President’s Day (which falls on every third Monday in February) is a federal holiday observed by many Americans. This holiday aims to remember and honor the past and present American presidents. In reverence of President’s Day, here are five fun and fascinating facts about our previous presidents’ dental history.

1. George Washington didn’t have wooden teeth.

Did you know that America’s first president only had one natural tooth at the time of his inauguration? Extensive decay plagued George Washington and led to 24 teeth being pulled, and his troublesome teeth caused him to feel self-conscious and reluctant to engage in public speaking.

While there is no doubt that Washington wore dentures, they were never wooden. He had many pairs that were composed of various materials, including:

• Hippopotamus ivory
• Bone
• Gold Wire
• Copper Screws
• Lead
• Human teeth

2. Grover Cleveland had oral surgery on a yacht.

Even though yachts are usually associated with luxury and leisure, America’s 22nd and 24th president probably didn’t have too much time to relax while dentists performed oral surgery. For privacy, Cleveland’s oral surgery team removed five teeth and a cancerous tumor from his mouth on this particular boat trip.

Best of our knowledge, there are no secret yacht dentists still present today. However, this makes a great story and reminder to ask your dentist to check for an oral cancer screening.

3. JFK’s saved a fellow sailor’s life–with his teeth.

During World War II, Lieutenant John F. Kennedy’s PT boat was sunk by the Japanese. According to his shipmate’s obituary, JFK towed a fellow shipmate to safety by holding his life jacket between his teeth. After three miles and four hours of tugging with his teeth, he saved his fellow sailor’s life. 

While we recommend being more gentle with your teeth, we are amazed by what our teeth can do when we keep them strong and healthy!

4. Lydon B. Johnson gifted electric toothbrushes.

Although electric toothbrushes were first invented in 1939, they didn’t come to the US until 1960. Because electric toothbrushes were a relatively new technology during his reign, Lyndon B. Johson gave away electric toothbrush sets with the presidential seal on them. 

Rumor has it that when a White House intern asked about this extraordinary gift, LBJ responded, “I want people to think of me right away when they wake up and right before they go to bed.” (Encouraging Americans to brush their teeth twice a day? Now, that’s what we call presi-dental wisdom.)

5. There is a dental office in the White House basement.

How many of us have wished that our dentists could come to us? For the President of the United States, this dream of convenience is a reality. In a Jimmy Kimmel interview with Barack Obama, the former president admitted that he doesn’t have to go out to the dentist. Obama stated that “the dentist comes to me.”

Since Hoover’s presidency during the Great Depression, the White House has had its own dental office prepped, equipped, and ready to tackle any oral health issue that the president may have to face.

Celebrate This President’s Day by Treating Your Kids with a Trip to the Dentist

Dr. Matt and his team cater to kids so that they can have a comfortable (and even fun!) trip to the dentist. Schedule your child’s next dental appointment at Smiles Dentistry for Kids in Overland Park, KS. Call (913) 685-9990 or message us online today.