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

Pediatric Dentistry Mystery: What is thrush and why are kids so susceptible?

What to Expect at Baby’s First Dental Appointment

When you’re a parent, there are a lot of “firsts” to look forward to. The first smile, the first word, the first step, the first birthday. But there’s an important “first” that you might not be thinking about – the first dental appointment. Though it might be hard to picture your little one in the dental chair, your baby should visit the dentist much sooner than you may expect. In fact, that first appointment should probably take place before your baby says “Dada” or takes that initial wobbly step.

If you’re looking for a dental home for your child, Smiles Dentistry 4 Kids in Overland Park, KS, is a great choice. Dr. Matt and his team exclusively treat pediatric patients, including babies and toddlers. Thanks to our experience, we know how to set the youngest patients at ease. And we can follow your child as he or she grows, providing outstanding care for every stage of dental development.

When should my baby first visit the dentist?

Once your child gets that first tooth, you should schedule an appointment. Baby teeth are just as prone to decay as adult teeth. In fact, 41% of children aged 2 to 11 have sustained cavities. This is why early dental visits are vital.

In fact, Dr. Matt is so committed to providing preventive care from an early age that we offer free exams and cleanings to children under 2 years of age!

Most babies cut their first teeth around 6 months of age, but this is just an average. If your child has not gotten any teeth by his or her first birthday, you should schedule an appointment. Typically, there is no cause for concern, but it still merits an evaluation.

What will happen during the first dental appointment?

At a baby’s first dental appointment, we focus on evaluation and helping them feel at home in the office. Dr. Matt will assess your little one’s dental development, making sure teeth are erupting normally. Our team will also introduce your baby to the office so that he or she starts to recognize it and will feel more and more comfortable as time goes on.

Cleanings typically don’t happen until a little one is closer to age 2. However, if your child’s first visit doesn’t occur until near this age, the initial appointment will also include a cleaning and, perhaps, dental x-rays.

How can I prepare my child for the dentist?

If you are bringing in an older child for the first time, talk about what he or she can expect. You can also find great picture books about the dentist that can serve as an introduction.

But if you are bringing a baby to the office for the first time, it can be difficult to discuss expectations. Instead, practicing good dental hygiene at home can be a great introduction. Plus, for optimal dental health, you should already be brushing your baby’s first teeth as soon as they come in.

The other way to prepare your baby for the dentist is to choose a practitioner who is used to treating the littlest patients. Even dentists who regularly see children may not be used to the special needs of babies and toddlers.

Schedule Your Child’s First Dental Appointment Today

Whether your child is six months old or six years old, we want to make their first visit a fun and relaxed experience.

Contact our office online to schedule a visit or give us a call at (913) 685-9990.

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

Pediatric Dentistry Mystery: What is thrush and why are kids so susceptible?

What Routine Oral Care for Kids Should Look Like

When you’ve had a hard day, nothing beats the sight of your child’s smile. So when it comes to routine oral care for kids, you naturally want the very best. But what exactly does that look like?

Children’s dental care looks very much like adult oral hygiene. At Smiles Dentistry for Kids, we can provide tips to improve your whole family’s dental care. And, of course, Dr. Matt also provides regular preventive services specifically for young patients.

To learn more about children’s dental care or to schedule a routine visit for your child, contact our Overland Park, KS, office today.

Daily Brushing and Flossing

Good daily care is the foundation of oral health. Twice daily brushing and once daily flossing can keep bacteria, plaque, and tartar at bay. Since these are the substances responsible for cavities, good maintenance can lay a foundation for a lifelong healthy smile.

You may be surprised to learn just how early brushing and flossing should begin. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends wiping down baby’s gums with a soft cloth even before any teeth come in. Once teeth erupt, parents should use a soft-bristled brush and a tiny amount of toothpaste to brush baby’s teeth twice a day.

Good Hygiene Modeled at Home

As a parent, you know that kids watch everything and try to copy whatever they see, especially in the early years. That is why it is so important that your children see you maintaining good dental care for yourself. From a young age, let them see you brushing and flossing. And when they get old enough to do it themselves, try brushing together as you teach them proper technique.

Not sure what the proper technique actually is? The American Dental Association has a whole guide!

A Healthy Diet

While removing oral bacteria is vital, what kids put into their mouths is also important! Too much sugar not only makes for a crazed kid; it also increases the risk of tooth decay. And refined sugar is not the only culprit. All simple starches, including white bread, rice, and fruit juice, provide oral bacteria with easy energy sources.

For optimal oral health, limit sugars and starches. Instead, encourage kids to reach for lean proteins, calcium-rich cheese and yogurt, vegetables, nuts, apples, and pears. It’s also important to drink water during and after meals, as this can help to flush away food particles.

Here is another instance of kids imitating what they see. If you make a habit of reaching for the healthy stuff, chances are your kids will, too!

Biannual Dental Visits

Finally, it is essential to visit the dentist twice a year. Biannual appointments allow a dentist to clean a child’s teeth, check for decay, and look for any problems with dental development. Often, early intervention can prevent serious functional or orthodontic problems later down the line.

Again, you may be surprised at how early this should start. In fact, babies should visit the dentist once their first teeth come in or no later than their first birthdays.

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids, we focus exclusively on pediatric care. We offer gentle, stress-free exams and cleanings. And we are ready to address any issues with equally compassionate, child-centered treatment.

Contact Us for Gentle Routine Oral Care for Kids

Protect your greatest treasure – your child’s smile! Contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids today.

You can make an appointment online or call us at (913) 685-9990.

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

Pediatric Dentistry Mystery: What is thrush and why are kids so susceptible?

What to Expect at Your Child’s Dental Checkups

Just like age-appropriate vaccines and routine wellness checks, dental checkups are a vital part of your child’s overall health. Good dental care beginning at an early age can greatly reduce your child’s risk for repeated cavities and orthodontic complications.

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids in Overland Park, KS, Dr. Matt and his team focus exclusively on pediatric care. Whether it is your child’s first visit or their tenth, we know that appointments can be scary for younger kids. That is why we work hard to make dental appointments fun and to let you know in advance exactly what you can expect.

Why are dental checkups so important?

Dental visits can prevent serious damage to your child’s teeth. 52% of children aged 6 to 8 have already developed at least one cavity in their baby teeth. This may not seem like a big deal – after all, those teeth will fall out eventually anyway! But early decay can dramatically increase your child’s risk for cavities as an adult.

Plus, unchecked decay can lead to premature baby tooth loss. Baby teeth serve as placeholders for adult teeth. Therefore, early loss can result in significantly misaligned permanent teeth.

Finally, when very young children are suffering from dental pain or problems with tooth development, they can experience difficulties in eating and speech development.

Oral Exam

All dental checkups include an oral exam. Dr. Matt will evaluate your child’s teeth, looking for any decay, erosion, cracks, or other damage. He or she will also assess the gum tissue to identify inflammation or other signs of gum disease. Though it may not seem like a major concern, periodontal disease affects up to 73% of children between the ages of 6 and 11!

Dental X-Rays

Typically, we will take x-rays at every other visit, unless your child is experiencing some troublesome symptoms. X-rays help us find hidden cavities and internal damage to teeth. Panoramic x-rays help us assess dental alignment. We can also evaluate permanent teeth that have not yet erupted.

Parents often worry about the risks of radiation exposure during x-rays. That is why we use digital x-rays, which can reduce radiation exposure by 80% compared to traditional imaging.

Dental Cleaning

Of course, cleanings are a key part of all dental checkups. One of our skilled dental assistants will carefully remove all plaque and tartar from your child’s teeth. After polishing, she will provide some tips and guidance for maintaining better dental hygiene at home.

Our team knows how to help kids relax in the dental chair and enjoy their experience. For those children with severe anxiety, we can also provide safe IV sedation.

Schedule Your Child’s Appointment Today

We are excited to be your child’s home for dental checkups and any other treatment they might need.

Contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids online or call our Overland Park office at 913-685-9990.

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

Pediatric Dentistry Mystery: What is thrush and why are kids so susceptible?

These 4 Essential Pediatric Dentistry Services Can Protect Your Child’s Smile for Life!

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.

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

Pediatric Dentistry Mystery: What is thrush and why are kids so susceptible?

Dentist in Overland Park: Great Kids’ Books about Dentists and Oral Health

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 Prep^TM 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.

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

Pediatric Dentistry Mystery: What is thrush and why are kids so susceptible?

Rise and Shine with These Breakfast Foods

The morning is the perfect opportunity to set intentions for the day, and research supports that starting your day with a balanced breakfast can positively impact your overall wellbeing. If you’re having trouble deciding what to put on your next grocery list, start your day with one of the following healthy breakfast foods that can protect your smile while giving your body the complex nutrients it needs:

Whole-Grain Cereals

It’s no secret that kids tend to love the cereal aisle at the grocery store. Here, you can find bright-colored boxes covered with kid-friendly cartoon characters. Many kinds of cereal marketed to children are often labeled as “healthy” but are loaded with sugar, sodium, and artificial ingredients.

Although sugary cereals have a bad reputation, not all cereals are created equal. When finding cereals for your family, look for whole-grain cereals with no sugar added. (Also, don’t forget warm whole grain cereals, like no-sugar-added oatmeal.)

Increasing whole grains in your diet might reduce your risk for periodontitis (advanced gum disease). Also, don’t forget to add a splash of plant-based or traditional dairy milk for extra calcium.

Crunchy Fruit

It’s summer, which means that fruit is in season! When filling up your fruit bowl, consider picking crunchy fruits, like apples and pears, with a high water and fiber content. Crunchy foods benefit oral health and hygiene in many ways, including:

Saliva Stimulation: When the mouth produces saliva, it washes away food particles and harmful bacteria.
Fiber: Crunchy fruits offer high amounts of fiber, which take more work to consume and digest.
Mechanical Scraping: Crunchy fruits act similarly to a natural toothbrush and can scrape away bacteria from the surface of your teeth.

Eggs

Whether you love a hearty omelet or a simple scramble, eggs are a great source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Furthermore, eggs are a versatile food. You can load them up with fresh vegetables to increase fiber and nutrients or sprinkle them with a bit of cheese for extra calcium.

Smoothies

Smoothies are a great breakfast option and are a way to sneak in fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, dairy, and fiber in a single glass. The next time you want a smoothie, consider combining your favorite combo of the following oral health-friendly ingredients:

Liquid base: green tea, plant-based milk, or low-fat milk
Leafy greens: spinach, kale, or Swiss chard
Whole fruit: bananas, berries, or apples
Protein: Protein powder, cottage cheese, or yogurt
Healthy fats: peanut butter, flax, or chia seeds

Yogurt

If you’re on the go, a serving of plain or Greek yogurt is an excellent, convenient breakfast full of probiotics and calcium. Make your simple yogurt a more wholesome and filling treat by adding fun mix-ins, such as nuts, seeds, or fruit.

Take Care of Your Teeth After Breakfast

After eating a balanced breakfast, ensure the food particles don’t hang around. Shortly after mealtime, brush and floss your teeth to remove bacteria, plaque, and food bits to prevent cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.

Also, don’t forget to schedule a children’s dental appointment at least every six months. Dr. Matt and his Overland Park, KS dental team are trained to care for the smallest smiles. Book a kid’s dental visit by calling (913) 685-9990 or messaging us online right now.

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

Pediatric Dentistry Mystery: What is thrush and why are kids so susceptible?

Father’s Day is Here, and Here’s How to Celebrate

Coincidentally, Father’s Day falls in the same month as Oral Health Month and Men’s Health Month. So, Dr. Matt and his team have compiled our favorite dental care tips for fathers and their children:

Lead By Example

There’s no better role model than you, Dad! It’s no secret that your kids watch and learn from your actions. During the early years, participate in your child’s oral hygiene routine by showing them the ropes (or tubes of toothpaste and best brushing practices). When you demonstrate good examples of oral hygiene in your household, your children are likely to follow suit.

Take Time to Take Care of Your Oral Health

Life never slows down, and this sentiment is especially true for parents. We understand that it can be challenging to pencil in “me” time with working overtime, coaching your kid’s little league team, and so much more. Yet, one way that you can ensure a long, healthy, and happy life is to pencil in moments to take care of your oral health.

Although it may be hard to hear, some gender-based studies propose that men generally take oral health for granted. Furthermore, men are more likely to disregard their oral health, have worse oral hygiene habits, and suffer from greater rates of oral health disease (such as gum disease and oral cancer) as well as dental trauma. Neglecting your oral health is devastating to your smile and can negatively impact your life.

Along with daily brushing and flossing, we recommend seeing the dentist at least twice a year. Regular dental hygiene check-ups and cleanings remove stubborn plaque, the sneaky culprit behind cavities, gum disease, and potentially systemic health conditions like heart disease.

Open Conversation About Oral Health

How often do you talk to your children about how to stay healthy? Father’s Day is the perfect occasion to pass on some wisdom about keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Help your child understand the vital relationships between oral health, general health, and quality of life by opening the floor to the following conversations:

Why it’s important to brush and floss your teeth every day
The dangers of tobacco and other drugs
How mouthguards can protect your teeth during sports
Why it’s important not to use your teeth as tools

Treat Yourself to Cosmetic Dentistry

Father’s Day serves as an opportunity to get pampered. If you’ve pushed off repairing a chipped tooth from an old sport’s injury, whitening your teeth, or straightening your smile, seize the day and celebrate Father’s Day by scheduling a cosmetic dentistry appointment with a local Overland Park dentist.

Be a Part of Your Child’s Dental Appointment

There’s a delicate balance to the art and science of fatherhood, but what’s most important is that you’re there. Whether you realize it or not, your children value the support and input that you provide in their wellness. Research suggests that children generally do better in life when their father actively participates in their lives.

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids in Overland Park, KS, we always welcome fathers who bring in their children for dental visits. (There’s no reason to miss out on the fun!) Check out what our children’s dentist’s office has to offer your family by calling (913) 685-9990 or messaging us online.

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

Pediatric Dentistry Mystery: What is thrush and why are kids so susceptible?

Seven Spring Break Activities Near Overland Park, KS

Whether you’re looking for activities in the sunshine or the comfort of cool air conditioning, there are local Spring Break activities to keep everyone in your family busy. So, pull out your planner and start penciling in these engaging activities to do around Overland Park, KS, while your children are out for school.

1. Stop and Smell the Flowers

If the weather permits, load up on fresh air and Vitamin D while you admire the local natural wonders of the season. Embracing environments with plenty of foliage is linked to many positive effects (such as improved cognition, better coping skills, and less stress).

Fortunately, our community has many green spaces, including:

Arboretum and Botanical Gardens
Farmer’s Market
Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead
Indian Creek Hike & Bike Trail

2. Escape Rooms

Discover a safe, thrilling, and immersive experience only an escape room can provide. Brain-teasing escape rooms help children think critically and make essential decisions to move through the stages. Therefore, escape rooms are an ideal, entertaining activity for developing problem-solving and objective analysis.

3. Play Board Games

If your kids are bored over Spring Break, bust out the board games! Board games are much more than family fun. Playing multi-player games can stimulate and strengthen parts of the brain responsible for complex thought processes and memory formation for kids of all ages. Additionally, playing board games can:

Strengthen bonds between people
Release the body’s natural “feel-good” chemicals
Teach children how to set goals and be patient
Help build self-esteem

4. Clean for Spring

Did you know that childhood cleanliness may impact your kid as an adult? In a compelling, multi-generational study, researchers discovered that young adults who grew up in homes that were rated “clean to very clean” completed more school and earned more money than those who grew up in homes rated as “not very clean to dirty.”

We get it. It can be a pain to teach kids how to clean. Frankly, it’s sometimes much faster to just do it yourself. However, teaching your kids how to clean correctly is an essential life skill that teaches them responsibility and helps them value hard work. So, crank up the tunes and start dusting as a family!

5. Visit a Museum or Two

Just because school is out doesn’t mean kids should turn their brains off. Museums provide multi-sensory opportunities to gain knowledge. Also, some museums allow children to explore their interests through hands-on activities and authentic artifacts.

That is why your family should check out these local installations to experience the arts, history, science, and more:

Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art
Museum at Prairiefire
Kidscape at Johnson County Museum
Wonder Wonder?
Overland Park Murals

6. Get Lucky at the St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Mark your calendar! On Saturday, March 12th, Downtown Overland Park will be kicking off its first-ever St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Celebrate this free Irish-themed parade with the entire family. But, most importantly, don’t forget to wear green!

7. Visit Smiles Dentistry for Kids

Since kids get a week away from school during Spring Break, this time serves as a fantastic opportunity to schedule children’s dentist visits. At Smiles Dentistry for Kids, Dr. Matt and his team believe in keeping your children’s teeth as healthy and clean as possible so that they can smile confidently. Book your child’s next dental visit by calling (913) 685-9990 or messaging us online.

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

Pediatric Dentistry Mystery: What is thrush and why are kids so susceptible?

How to Prepare for Your Little One’s First Dental Appointment

Is it finally time to schedule your child’s first dental appointment? If your child has a tooth or has celebrated their first birthday, then the answer to that question is an astounding YES! Before scheduling the first dental appointment, we want to make sure both parent and patient are calm and collected for their child’s big day at our office. In this blog, we discuss do’s and don’ts in preparation for your child’s first dental appointment.

DO be prepared.

Please have medical records and insurance ready before arriving at your child’s first dental appointment. At Smiles for Kids Dentistry in Overland Park, KS, our team tends to run on schedule. Please arrive at least 10 minutes early to your appointment. We need an ample amount of time to accommodate your needs and every child after.

DON’T use anxiety or fear-based language.

Despite our best intentions, studies show that children with anxious parents tend to showcase anxiety as well (likely due to a combination of genetics and learned behavior). If you feel uneasy about going to the dentist, your child may also develop feelings of apprehension. Please don’t be scared! Instead of allowing your fears to rub off on your children, act out or speak with your child about positive dental experiences (if your child is old enough to understand).

DO bring comfort items.

Just like the people who rely on them, coping strategies are diverse. When stress and anxiety hit, some children reach for something soft and familiar. By bringing a child’s favorite toy or blanket, children can practice self-soothing and help them feel more secure.

DON’T use negative reinforcement.

We get it. Sometimes, children can behave differently in a clinical setting. Whether your child does not appreciate being in a new environment or maybe that the dentist is taking too long for his or her liking, our pediatric dental team is experienced in handling different types of kids and scenarios. Also, we are hopeful and understand that it typically gets better with each visit.

It’s incredibly beneficial for parents to reassure their children that these feelings are normal for some kids, that they are in a safe environment, and have a positive attitude. Additionally, parents can praise their children for being brave after the dental appointment.

During difficult moments when your child is not receptive to what you have to say, actions can speak louder than words. Sometimes, a simple hug from mom or dad can help calm young children down. Recent research supports that receiving hugs can reduce cortisol responses to stress. We can assume that when children feel less stressed, they often feel more comfortable.

DO schedule your child’s first dental appointment with a pediatric dentist.

Some parents believe that they can simply take their kids to visit their general dentist. However, not all dentists are trained (or will treat) young children. In contrast, pediatric dentists complete additional training after dental school to learn about all the nuances of rapidly developing mouths.

At Smiles for Dentistry Kids, our team is trained to understand how to comfort and treat young patients with a wide range of needs and stages of development. Schedule your child’s first dental appointment by calling (913) 685-9990 or messaging us online today.

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