Tag: childrens dentist Overland Park

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

Children's dentist, dental check-up, Dental Hygiene, Pediatric dentist

dental fear, Pediatric dentist

How to Help Your Child Overcome Dental Anxiety

What to Do If Your Child Has a Toothache

A child with a toothache can quickly turn a normal day into a stressful one for any parent. Whether the pain is sudden or has been building for a few days, it’s important to know how to respond, when to call the dentist, and what might be causing the discomfort. At Smiles Dentistry 4 Kids in Overland Park, KS, we specialize in caring for children’s dental needs with compassion and expertise—especially when emergencies or toothaches arise.

If you’re wondering what to do when your child says their tooth hurts, this guide will walk you through step-by-step.

Step 1: Stay Calm and Ask Questions

First and foremost, remain calm. Children often mirror the emotions of the adults around them, so your calm demeanor can help ease their fear.

Ask your child questions such as:

When did the pain start?
Is it sharp, throbbing, or dull?
Does it hurt more when eating or drinking?

If they’re old enough, they may be able to point out the specific tooth or area that hurts. If the child is very young or non-verbal, look for signs like drooling, face-touching, refusal to eat, or difficulty sleeping.

Step 2: Examine the Mouth and Rinse

Gently examine your child’s mouth. Look for:

Swelling or redness of the gums
Visible cavities or holes in the tooth
Chipped, cracked, or broken teeth
Food particles stuck between teeth

Have your child rinse their mouth with warm water and, if old enough, try a saltwater rinse to reduce inflammation. Carefully floss around the painful tooth to ensure there’s nothing lodged between it.

Step 3: Ease the Discomfort

You can use a cold compress on the cheek to reduce swelling and numb the area. For short-term pain relief, you may offer over-the-counter children’s pain medication—like ibuprofen or acetaminophen—based on their weight and age. Never apply aspirin directly to a tooth or gums, as it can cause chemical burns.

For families searching for a same day kids dentist in Overland Park, Smiles Dentistry 4 Kids offers prompt care for urgent dental issues. We strive to see patients quickly when a toothache can’t wait.

Step 4: Call the Dentist

Even if the pain improves temporarily, a toothache is often a symptom of an underlying issue that needs professional attention. It could be caused by:

Tooth decay
A dental abscess or infection
Gum inflammation
A loose or erupting tooth
Injury or trauma

Prompt diagnosis and treatment can prevent the issue from becoming worse. Our team is here to help families who need a pediatric dentist in Overland Park with emergency care options, preventive services, and restorative treatments when needed.

Common Causes of Toothaches in Children

Understanding what might be causing your child’s discomfort helps you better respond:

Cavities: The leading cause of toothaches in kids. Tooth decay can develop even with regular brushing if diet and hygiene aren’t consistent.
Emerging Teeth: New teeth coming in, especially molars, can cause temporary discomfort.
Cracked or Broken Teeth: Often from falls, accidents, or biting hard foods.
Infection or Abscess: Requires immediate care to prevent it from spreading.
Food Impaction: Even healthy snacks like apples or popcorn can become lodged between teeth.

At Smiles Dentistry 4 Kids, we provide teeth cleaning for kids in Overland Park as part of our preventive care program to help avoid issues that lead to toothaches.

When It’s an Emergency

Call our office immediately if your child has:

Swelling in the face or jaw
Persistent or severe pain
A knocked-out or cracked tooth
Fever or signs of infection

As a trusted provider of restorative dental care for kids in Overland Park, we’re equipped to handle everything from urgent care to long-term smile solutions.

How to Prevent Future Toothaches

Prevention is key. Help your child:

Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
Floss daily
Limit sugary snacks and drinks
Attend dental checkups every six months
Wear a mouthguard during sports

We also emphasize the benefits of fluoride for kids in Overland Park, which helps strengthen enamel and fight cavities.

Caring for Overland Park Smiles

At Smiles Dentistry 4 Kids, we understand that every child’s smile is unique—and so is every toothache. Whether your child needs quick relief, ongoing dental care, or reassurance in the dental chair, we’re here to provide it all in a fun, welcoming environment.

If your child is experiencing tooth pain, give us a call. We’re proud to be recognized as a provider of best pediatric dentistry in Overland Park and are here to help your child feel better fast.

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

Children's dentist, dental check-up, Kids' Dentist, Kids' Health, Pediatric dentist

dental fear, Pediatric dentist

How to Help Your Child Overcome Dental Anxiety

Let’s be honest—going to the dentist can be a little intimidating for kids. The new sounds, unfamiliar environment, and fear of the unknown can all contribute to dental anxiety. But with the right approach and a team that understands kids, dental visits can become positive, even enjoyable, experiences.

At Smiles Dentistry 4 Kids in Overland Park, our goal is to help every child feel safe, supported, and confident from the moment they walk through our doors. Whether it’s their first checkup or they need restorative care, we’re here to make the process smooth and stress-free.

Why Kids Experience Dental Anxiety

Dental anxiety in children may stem from:

Fear of pain or discomfort
Negative stories from siblings or friends
Sensory sensitivities (e.g., lights, sounds, tastes)
Previous medical or dental trauma
Fear of separation from parents

If your child feels anxious before appointments or avoids brushing altogether, these are important signs to address.

How to Ease Dental Fear in Kids

1. Choose a Pediatric Dental Specialist

Children thrive when they receive care from professionals who specialize in their needs. A pediatric dentist in Overland Park knows how to communicate with kids, make dental concepts fun, and adapt the environment to reduce stress.

At our office, everything is designed with kids in mind—from the décor and tools to our compassionate, kid-savvy team.

2. Keep Conversations Positive at Home

Avoid using scary words like “shot” or “drill.” Instead, describe the dentist as a “smile helper” and explain that they’re going to count teeth, make them sparkle, and keep them strong.

Encouraging stories, books, and pretend dental play can also help make the idea of a dental visit more familiar and fun.

3. Bring Comfort Items to the Appointment

A beloved stuffed animal, blanket, or toy can offer comfort and familiarity in a new setting. We also encourage parents to remain nearby during early visits, especially for toddlers and preschoolers.

4. Start Dental Visits Early

Introducing your child to dental care by their first birthday helps normalize the experience from a young age. If you’re unsure when to begin, a same day kids dentist in Overland Park like our team can help you schedule your first visit and guide you through the process.

5. Offer Praise and Rewards

Positive reinforcement goes a long way. After each visit, celebrate your child’s bravery with praise, a fun sticker, or a special reward. Even small accomplishments—like sitting in the chair—are worth celebrating.

6. Explore Gentle Sedation If Needed

For children with significant anxiety, certain treatments may be easier with the help of mild sedation. Our practice offers safe, age-appropriate options designed to keep kids relaxed and comfortable during procedures.

If your child needs more extensive work or has a history of dental fear, talk to us about your options. We want to ensure the best possible experience for them.

Why It Matters: Dental Confidence for Life

When children feel safe at the dentist, they’re more likely to develop good habits, maintain regular checkups, and seek care proactively into adulthood. That’s why overcoming dental fear is more than just getting through an appointment—it’s setting the foundation for a healthy future.

Whether your family is looking for the best pediatric dentistry in Overland Park, help with a lip tie, or just a team that truly understands children, Smiles Dentistry 4 Kids is here to help.

Let’s Make Dental Visits Something to Smile About

No matter where your child is in their dental journey—first visit, first cavity, or first cleaning—we’re here to make it a positive experience. If you’ve been searching for Overland Park smiles you can trust, look no further.

Contact Smiles Dentistry 4 Kids today to schedule your child’s appointment and discover a dental home where comfort, compassion, and quality come together.

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

Children's dentist, dental check-up, Kids' Dentist, Kids' Health, Pediatric dentist

Children's dentist, dental check-up, Dental Hygiene, Pediatric dentist

Cavity Prevention Tips for Kids

For many parents, keeping cavities away is a top priority—and for good reason. Cavities can lead to discomfort, missed school days, and even more serious dental issues if left untreated. But here’s the good news: cavities are almost entirely preventable with the right combination of home care and professional support.

At Smiles Dentistry 4 Kids, we help families across Overland Park create healthy habits for long-lasting oral health. Whether your child is due for a checkup or you’re looking for tips on fluoride for kids in Overland Park, we’re here to support your child’s smile every step of the way.

Why Are Kids More Susceptible to Cavities?

Children are particularly prone to cavities due to a few common reasons:

Developing tooth enamel that’s more vulnerable to acid
Frequent snacking and high-sugar diets
Learning proper brushing and flossing techniques
Lack of routine professional dental visits

Cavities can happen quickly—especially in baby teeth—so it’s important to be proactive from the start.

How to Prevent Cavities in Children

1. Start Early with Oral Hygiene

Oral care should begin as soon as the first tooth appears. Use a small, soft-bristled toothbrush with a smear of fluoride toothpaste to gently clean teeth twice a day. As more teeth come in, continue brushing and add flossing once teeth begin to touch.

Parents looking for a pediatric dentist in Overland Park can count on our team to walk them through age-appropriate techniques during early visits.

2. Schedule Regular Dental Checkups

Routine visits for teeth cleaning for kids in Overland Park are essential for preventing cavities. Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar that can’t be brushed away at home. These visits also help your child build comfort and familiarity with the dental office.

We recommend checkups every six months to monitor dental development and catch any issues early.

3. Make Fluoride Part of the Routine

Fluoride is one of the best defenses against tooth decay. It strengthens enamel and helps reverse early signs of damage. Many Overland Park families benefit from fluoride treatments during dental visits, especially if their home water supply is not fluoridated.

If you’re unsure whether your child is getting enough fluoride in Overland Park, our team can assess and recommend appropriate care based on age and risk factors.

4. Consider Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are a fast, painless way to protect your child’s back molars, where cavities are most likely to form. A thin layer of resin is painted onto the chewing surface to block food and bacteria from settling into grooves.

This preventive step is often recommended around age 6 when the first molars come in—and again for second molars around age 12.

5. Make Nutrition Part of the Cavity-Free Plan

Limiting sugar is key to preventing tooth decay. Sticky candies, juice, and sugary snacks feed the bacteria that cause cavities. Encourage a diet full of:

Fresh fruits and veggies
Whole grains
Dairy for strong enamel
Plenty of water

Avoid frequent grazing or sipping on sweet drinks throughout the day, as this prolongs acid exposure.

6. Keep It Fun and Consistent at Hom

Good habits are more likely to stick when oral care feels like a positive part of the day. Try:

Letting your child pick their own toothbrush and toothpaste flavor
Playing a favorite song or using a 2-minute timer
Reading books about brushing
Making brushing a family activity

These simple steps can help eliminate resistance and foster independence.

7. Know When to See a Dentist for Specific Needs

In addition to regular checkups, there are times when your child may need specialized care, such as treatment for a lip tie in Overland Park or other oral issues that impact eating, speech, or comfort. At Smiles Dentistry 4 Kids, we’re trained to recognize and address these concerns early, helping kids thrive in all areas of development.

When Restorative Dentistry Is Needed

Even with the best prevention, cavities may still happen—and that’s okay. When they do, early intervention is key. As a restorative dentist for kids in Overland Park, we offer gentle, effective treatment options such as fillings and crowns designed specifically for growing smiles.

Our goal is always to restore health while keeping children relaxed and reassured.

Healthy Habits Today, Confident Smiles Tomorrow

At Smiles Dentistry 4 Kids, we believe every child deserves a happy, healthy smile—and we’re here to help you achieve it. From your child’s first visit to ongoing prevention and care, we provide compassionate, kid-friendly dental services for families throughout the area.

Looking for guidance on same day kids dentist visits in Overland Park, fluoride safety, or how to start a healthy dental routine? Reach out to our team and let’s build lifelong habits together.

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

Children's dentist, dental check-up, Kids' Dentist, Kids' Health, Pediatric dentist

Children's dentist, dental check-up, Dental Hygiene, Pediatric dentist

Why Your Child Might Need a Frenectomy

A child’s oral development plays a crucial role in their ability to eat, speak, and maintain proper dental hygiene. Sometimes, a condition called tongue-tie or lip-tie can limit movement and cause difficulties in these areas. A frenectomy is a simple procedure that can resolve these issues and improve your child’s quality of life.

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids, we specialize in pediatric dental care, including frenectomies for children who may be experiencing feeding or speech challenges. If you’re concerned about your child’s oral development, here’s what you need to know about this procedure.

What Is a Frenectomy?

A frenectomy is a minor surgical procedure that removes or releases the small band of tissue (frenulum) connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth or the lip to the gums. This treatment is often recommended for children with restricted oral movement due to tongue-tie or lip-tie.

There are two types of frenectomies:

Lingual Frenectomy – Used to correct tongue-tie, which can impact speech, feeding, and oral hygiene.
Labial Frenectomy – Used to correct lip-tie, which may cause breastfeeding difficulties in infants and spacing issues in older children.

A consultation with a pediatric dentist in Overland Park, KS can help determine whether your child would benefit from this procedure.

Signs Your Child Might Need a Frenectomy

While some children with a mild tongue-tie or lip-tie adapt without issues, others may experience noticeable difficulties. Common signs that a frenectomy may be needed include:

Breastfeeding Challenges – Infants may struggle to latch, leading to frustration for both the baby and mother.
Speech Difficulties – Children may have trouble pronouncing certain sounds, such as “L,” “R,” or “S.”
Gum Recession or Gaps Between Teeth – A tight frenulum may pull on the gums, leading to spacing concerns.
Difficulty with Oral Hygiene – Limited tongue movement can make it hard for children to clean their teeth properly, increasing the risk of cavities.

If your child is showing any of these signs, visiting a top pediatric dentist near Overland Park can help determine whether a frenectomy is the best solution.

What to Expect During a Frenectomy

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids, we use advanced, minimally invasive techniques to make the frenectomy procedure quick and comfortable. The process typically includes:

A gentle evaluation to determine if a frenectomy is needed.
Application of a numbing agent to ensure a pain-free experience.
A quick release of the frenulum using laser technology or a small surgical tool.
Minimal recovery time, with most children resuming normal activities the same day.

For children who may be nervous about the procedure, our team provides a calm and reassuring environment. If necessary, an emergency pediatric dentist in Overland Park, KS can offer sedation options for added comfort.

Benefits of a Frenectomy

A frenectomy can greatly improve your child’s oral function by:

Enhancing speech development
Improving feeding ability in infants
Reducing future orthodontic concerns
Helping with better oral hygiene

Many parents notice immediate improvements in their child’s ability to eat, speak, and move their tongue freely after the procedure.

When to See a Pediatric Dentist for a Frenectomy

If you suspect your child has a tongue-tie or lip-tie, scheduling an evaluation with a pediatric dentist in Overland Park, KS is the best way to determine the right course of action. Early intervention can prevent long-term issues and make daily activities like speaking and eating much easier for your child.

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids, we provide expert, compassionate care for children of all ages. Whether your child needs a frenectomy, routine dental checkups, or emergency dental care, our team is here to help.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment and ensure your child’s oral health is on the right track!

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

Children's dentist, dental check-up, Kids' Dentist, Kids' Health, Pediatric dentist

Children's dentist, dental check-up, Dental Hygiene, Pediatric dentist

Pediatric Dentistry Mystery: The Tooth Fairy

It truly is a pediatric dentistry mystery, where the Tooth Fairy originated. Throughout history and across the globe, parents have built excitement and anticipation around their children’s loss of primary teeth. Indeed, it is a right of passage when a young child begins to see evidence of their growth. Today, Dr. Matt will share some of the folklore around the Tooth Fairy, her mystery, magic, and wonder. Your children will love this!

The American Tooth Fairy

In 1908, Lillian Brown authored an article in the Chicago Tribune encouraging parents to introduce the Tooth Fairy. As the story went, the Tooth Fairy’s token gift prompted children to allow baby teeth to be pulled without tears. Brown suggested a $.05 exchange for each tooth, left under the child’s pillow to help promote the myth.

The average gift left by the Tooth Fairy today is $3.70 in the US, according to a poll by Visa. Other research by Delta Dental shows that in 1998, average payment of $1.80 has risen to $6.23 in 2023!

Tooth Fairy of the Norse and Vikings

In the 10th Century, Norse parents paid tand-fe, or “tooth fee,” to their children in exchange for lost teeth. Some families would burn or bury a child’s first lost tooth, so he would be spared from hardships later in life. Tradition held that a milk tooth not burned or buried would become cause for an eternal search in the afterlife.

Another belief was that if a witch found a child’s tooth, she would hold power over that child for his lifetime.

Also, Viking warriors wore multiple children’s teeth on jewelry to bring good luck and protection.

The Tooth Mouse of France and Spain

In the 18th Century, French parents told their children of Le Bonne Petite Souris (the Little Mouse). This little critter would leave a coin in exchange for a lost baby tooth. Children placed a lost tooth in their shoes, and the following day voila! Payment appeared in its place.

El Ratoncito Perez, or Perez the Little Mouse, is a similar figure in Spain. Hispanic cultures teach children that El Ratoncito Perez will come at night. He will trade a coin for a tooth left near the child’s bedside.

Other Tooth Children’s Tooth Traditions

Folklore across the globe depicts the “tooth fairy” as a beaver, cat, dog, and squirrel. Some rituals involve throwing lost children’s teeth into the fire, sun, or even between the legs! Parents and children have dropped teeth in mouse holes, placed them in trees, and thrown them over a roof. Stranger still, baby teeth have been purposefully swallowed by the child who lost it, his mother, or a family pet. All of these strange rituals were thought to bring luck, protection, or favor.

We Love the Tooth Fairy!

At Smiles Dentistry 4 Kids, Dr. Matt and our team want your children to enjoy taking great care of their teeth. We help parents and children learn how to brush, floss, and protect baby and permanent teeth from dental disease. Every parent should trust their dentist. We respect the trust our patients and their families place in us. Give us a call in Overland Park at (913) 685-9990 today to schedule your child’s dental appointment.

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

Children's dentist, dental check-up, Kids' Dentist, Kids' Health, Pediatric dentist

Children's dentist, dental check-up, Dental Hygiene, Pediatric dentist

Children's dentist, dental check-up, Kids' Dentist, Kids' Health, Pediatric dentist

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

Dr Matt and his team at Smiles Dentistry for Kids are excited to welcome Dr Tara Craven to the Smiles Dentistry for Kids team! Dr Tara received her Doctor of Dentistry Degree at the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry and will complete her rigorous 2-year training program in Pediatric Dentistry at Children’s Mercy Hospital this June. During her training Dr. Tara received numerous awards and was part of the Pediatric Dental Honors Program where she cared for pediatric patients with special needs and those requiring advanced care. At Smiles Dentistry for Kids, families can always expect to be seen by a Board Certified Pediatric Dentist.

We are confident that Dr. Tara will provide the highest quality care and attention that our families have grown to expect and appreciate at Smiles Dentistry for Kids. Dr. Craven will begin seeing patients in August, 2023. To help our patients get to know her better we asked Dr. Tara a few questions:

Why did you choose to specialize in Pediatric Dentistry?
Pediatric dentistry is my dream job and an incredible avenue that allows me to connect with kids and families. Children not only bring excitement to the field of dentistry, they bring magic, hope and adventure. I feel honored to get the opportunity to not only provide education and knowledge about dentistry but to empower kids to enjoy brushing their teeth and coming to the dentist.

What are you looking forward to most as you start caring for families at Smiles Dentistry for Kids?
I am so excited to be able to serve this community and build relationships with kids and their families. I am passionate about providing a positive dental experience for kids that will last a lifetime.

Anything else you would like our families to know about you?
Outside of pediatric dentistry, I love spending time outdoors with my husband and Labrador, traveling to new places and spending time with friends and family.

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Children's dentist, dental check-up, Dental Hygiene, Pediatric dentist

dental fear, Pediatric dentist

How to Help Your Child Overcome Dental Anxiety

How Water Can Improve Your Child’s Oral Health

When it comes to staying hydrated and healthy, water is the best option. Juice, soda, tea, milk, and sports drinks all have benefits (well, maybe not soda), but they also have several negative effects. For example, children who drink milk right before bedtime are much more likely to develop cavities than children who drink water at nighttime. Sports drinks, sodas, and juices are also filled with sugars that interrupt the health of the oral microbiome.

While it may take some convincing, it’s worth it to get your little one to drink more water! Here are the benefits of water for oral health:

1. Water can strengthen dental enamel.

Since 1945, fluoride has been added to public water systems. Fluoridated water has proven itself as one of the best defenses against childhood tooth decay. When children drink water that contains fluoride, it mixes with saliva and remineralizes and strengthens dental enamel, lessening their chances of developing cavities.

If your child is drinking mostly bottled water, he probably isn’t experiencing these benefits! Be sure to find a bottled water that contains fluoride to reduce your child’s risk of tooth decay.

2. Water cleans the mouth.

Unlike sugary drinks, water rids the mouth of food particles and cavity-causing bacteria without leaving anything behind. Sports drinks, soda, juice, and even milk leave unwanted sugar and acids lingering on the teeth and gums that can cause cavities.

Water also removes stains that could cause your child’s teeth to become dull or yellow. Sugary, dark-colored drinks are one of the most common teeth-staining agents.

3. Water helps the mouth produce more saliva.

Did you know that saliva actually plays a very significant role in your child’s oral health? More concerning than your little one producing too much saliva is when he or she isn’t producing enough!

Saliva helps us break down and digest food properly and keeps us from experiencing dry mouth (which can be extremely uncomfortable!). The more water your little one drinks, the better she will digest food and avoid dry mouth.

Check out this blog to learn how to help your little one if he or she is experiencing dry mouth.

4. Water doesn’t contain any sugar.

Children over two years of age and older should consume no more than 25 grams of sugar per day. Just one apple juice box can contain 23 grams of sugar!

Not only does sugar contribute to cavities, but it also contributes to childhood obesity and Type 2 diabetes. By simply avoiding these drinks, your child’s oral and overall health could dramatically improve.

If you want to “spice up” your little one’s water to make it more appealing, try adding fruit, such as strawberries and blueberries to give it a little more flavor. Some parents add a small amount of juice to their child’s water too.

For more tips to improve your child’s oral health…

Contact our friendly dental team at Smiles Dentistry for Kids in Overland Park! Dr. Matt and his team of hygienists are passionate about helping children avoid childhood tooth decay. That’s why we offer preventive dentistry methods that are safe and effective and focus on educating our patients and their parents in easy-to-understand language.

Join our family! Call (913) 685-9990 to schedule your child’s first visit.

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

Children's dentist, dental check-up, Kids' Dentist, Kids' Health, Pediatric dentist

Children's dentist, dental check-up, Dental Hygiene, Pediatric dentist

What To Expect From Your Overland Park Pediatric Dentist

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids, it’s our privilege to serve the Overland Park community by providing kid-friendly, compassionate, and excellent dental care. If you’re new to the area or are just searching for a new pediatric dentist, we would love to meet with you! Until then, check out this blog to learn more about our dental practice.

But first, let us introduce you to our pediatric dentist!

Dr. Matt

Running his own pediatric dental practice has always been Dr. Matt’s dream. In doing so, he is able to teach kids and their families about the dangers of tooth decay and how to avoid it in a fun, non-clinical environment.

Dr. Matt’s education at the UMKC School of Dentistry and the Pediatric Dentistry at Northwestern University has prepared him to be an incredible resource for parents. The countless hours of hands-on experience he received at Children’s Memorial Hospital has equipped him to provide excellent care to children and teens.

All of this combined with his passion for working with children, flexibility, and high energy, make him the best choice for children’s dentistry in Overland Park.

Dr. Matt has worked hard to create an office where our patients and their parents feel welcome and cared for. Part of this is ensuring that we consistently create enjoyable experiences.

At our pediatric dentist office, here’s what you can always expect:

Personalized Care

We recognize that every child is unique which means that every child requires unique care. At Smiles Dentistry for Kids, that’s what they get!

Our team gets to know you and your little one so that he or she can have the best dental experience possible. Does your child have a favorite TV show or book character? Is he more shy or outgoing? Does she play a certain sport? We take these into consideration before every single appointment! Knowing more about our patients makes the entire dental experience better for all parties involved.

No Surprises

Dental insurance can be complicated, but our administrative team works diligently to ensure you’re never surprised by unexpected expenses. We have a comprehensive understanding of your benefits and will communicate those effectively, so you always know what to expect.

Additionally, we strive to be consistent in every area of our practice because we know that familiarity brings comfort.

Diligence

Every patient deserves to receive diligent care from focused dental professionals. This way, we never miss an oral health care problem that needs to be addressed or an opportunity to teach your little one how to care for his teeth properly (that is our job after all!).

Consistency

Consistency is so important for children because it helps dissolve worrisome feelings. Dr. Matt understands that being a consistent figure in your child’s life will make sure going to the dentist is never a cause for fear or anxiety. This means, your child will always meet with Dr. Matt and no one else for every single appointment.

This isn’t just beneficial for our patients; Dr. Matt loves building relationships with his patients. He is just as excited about dentistry as he is about working with children, so every appointment is his dream come true!

Schedule an Initial Consultation

When you and your little one are ready, we’re here for you. Call (913) 685-9990 to schedule your child’s first visit.

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

Children's dentist, dental check-up, Kids' Dentist, Kids' Health, Pediatric dentist

Children's dentist, dental check-up, Dental Hygiene, Pediatric dentist

Is there a kids’ dentist near me who sees new patients?

Choosing a pediatric dentist for your little one is an important and meaningful task. As a parent, we know that you desire for your child to grow up to be happy, healthy, and successful. Though we may have different definitions of those words, we can all agree that good oral hygiene affects each of those areas. After all, healthy, beautiful teeth certainly encourage smiling, improve confidence, and have a positive impact on overall health.

So, what’s the first step in helping your child achieve good oral hygiene? We believe the answer is finding the right kid’s dentist! Aside from asking for recommendations from friends and family, we recommend using the internet and your research skills to find the best “kid’s dentist near me.”

In this blog, we’ll explain exactly what to look for and where to find it!

1. Experience

The saying “experience is the best teacher” is a saying for a reason—it’s true! It’s the reason we ask for references when we hire a handyman or babysitter. We want to know that the person is good at what they do and that they have had enough experience to perfect their craft.

When searching for a “kid’s dentist near me” to care for your little one, experience is a must. Pediatric dentists are trained to know how your child’s mouth should be developing but experience helps them know what to do when it’s not. Experience is especially helpful when learning how to handle children’s behavior in the dentist’s chair.

Where to find it: You should find information about a dentist’s experience on his website under the “About the Dentist/Doctor” tab. You can read about our pediatric dentist, Dr. Matt, here.

2. Good communication skills

A pediatric dentist should know how to communicate well with both children and adults. It is their responsibility to teach toddlers, adolescents, teens, and their parents about proper oral hygiene habits and routines.

Where to find it: The best way to learn if a dentist has good communication skills is to visit the office in person. However, we know that’s not always possible. The next best thing is to read patient reviews on Google. You can find ours here!

3. Passion

There’s nothing worse than dealing with a person who doesn’t love his or her job. Not only are they miserable, but they bring everyone around them down too. We see this in every profession, and pediatric dentists are no exception.

Patients can easily tell if their dentist is passionate about what he does. It shows in his countenance, office environment, and even on his website! Find the “kids’ dentist near me” that seems to give his all in every area of his practice.

Where to find it: Visit the dentist’s website, watch any informational videos, and read through the reviews for details about the dentist.

4. A welcoming presence

Children are often nervous or scared when they visit the dentist for the first time. A great pediatric dentist will make every patient (and their parents) feel as comfortable as possible during their visit. This includes making sure every team member is friendly and warm as soon as patients walk through the door.

Where to find it: We recommend an old-fashioned, in-person visit for this one! Of course, online reviews are helpful too.

Our Kid’s Dentist Near You

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids, we always look forward to welcoming new patients into our family! We do our best to provide a warm, fun, and safe environment for children of all ages. We know you’ll find all these qualities and more at our Overland Park office.

Call (913) 685-9990 today to schedule an initial consultation for your little one.

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

Children's dentist, dental check-up, Kids' Dentist, Kids' Health, Pediatric dentist

Children's dentist, dental check-up, Dental Hygiene, Pediatric dentist