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

Pediatric Dentistry Mystery: Is thumb sucking bad for kids?

Children's dentist

Children’s Dentist Explains: How the Pilgrims and Native Americans Cared for Their Teeth

Pediatric Dentistry Mystery: Is thumb sucking bad for kids?

It’s sweet when you see your little one sucking his thumb, as he drifts off to sleep. Or maybe she sticks a finger in her mouth when she is sad or uncertain. Either way, it’s endearing. But is thumb sucking as innocent as it seems? Can it cause dental problems? And when should a parent intervene?

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids in Overland Park, KS, we are here to answer the many questions you have as you navigate the mysterious world of parenting. Dr. Matt, Dr. Craven, and the rest of the team are highly knowledgeable, not only about pediatric dentistry, but also about children and their needs in general. That’s why, when you visit our practice, both you and your child will feel more confident and comfortable.

To learn more about thumb sucking and other oral health concerns, contact our office today.

Why do children suck their thumbs (or fingers)?

Thumb and finger sucking are both behaviors known as non-nutritive sucking. This is the type of sucking that babies do at the start of breastfeeding before milk lets down. Pacifier use is also a form of non-nutritive sucking.

Non-nutritive sucking is extremely common, affecting about 90% of newborns. Thumb sucking as a habit typically begins between the ages of 2 and 4 months. It gives infants and toddlers a sense of security and attachment, helping them to calm their nervous system. It also establishes oral awareness, essential for speech and proper eating habits.

Most children naturally outgrow their sucking habit between the ages of 2 and 4.

Thumb Sucking and Its Effect on Teeth

In all likelihood, you don’t need to be concerned if your child sucks his thumb. But the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends intervention if your child continues non-nutritive sucking beyond the age of 5 or 6. The habit can have serious consequences as permanent teeth start to emerge. These include:

An overbite
Gap between the upper and lower teeth
An overextended upper jaw
Crooked teeth
Tongue thrust and speech impediments

How to Help Your Child Break the Habit

Remember, thumb sucking is a form of self-soothing, so punishment and shaming is counterproductive. Instead, use a system of positive reinforcement. Praise your child when she refrains from sucking, or offer a small reward, such as an extra story before bed, a trip to the park, or even a big hug. And start small. Challenge your child not to suck her thumb for a set time, such as an hour before nap, rather than asking for the whole day.

Another important step is to identify why your child sucks his thumb in the first place. When older children continue the habit, there typically are emotional or psychological factors at play. Help your child to name his feelings and to adopt healthier coping mechanisms.

If nothing seems to be working, consult your pediatric dentist. In rare cases, he may recommend additional support, such as an oral appliance. And he can determine if your child needs treatment to address the impact of prolonged thumb sucking.

Contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids for Additional Support

To learn more or to schedule an appointment, contact our office today.

Reach us via our website 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!

Should I take my child to a pediatric dentist before the New Year?

Children's dentist

Children’s Dentist Explains: How the Pilgrims and Native Americans Cared for Their Teeth

Happy Thanksgiving from your children’s dentist! This time of year, kids often learn about the first Thanksgiving, shared between European settlers and their Native American friends. But your child’s teacher probably hasn’t talked about dental health in the American colonies. And that’s a shame because, when you think about the strides we’ve made since that first Thanksgiving feast, we truly have a lot to be grateful for!

Dr. Matt, Dr. Craven, and the team at Smiles Dentistry for Kids wish you and your family a happy Thanksgiving. At our Overland Park, KS, office, we are thankful that you have chosen to trust us with your childrens’ dental health. Enjoy this peek into daily life in colonial America, and enjoy this beautiful celebration with your loved ones. (Just don’t forget to brush your teeth after dinner!)

To join our office family or to schedule an appointment, contact us today.

The First Thanksgiving

When we think about the first Thanksgiving, we usually think about the feast in Plymouth colony. In November 1621, the Pilgrims organized a celebration following the first successful corn harvest in their new land. They invited several of the Wampanoag people, with whom they had formed an alliance.

It’s important to note that many Native Americans resent this rosy portrait of friendship. Though the European settlers initially befriended the native people, this peace was short-lived. It wasn’t long before fighting broke out, and the many local tribes were deprived of their ancestral land.

Chowing Down in Plymouth

We don’t know for sure what was on that first Thanksgiving menu, but it probably looked a lot different from the feast we enjoy today. For one thing, turkey wasn’t necessarily an option. But the revelers definitely enjoyed venison, since the Native Americans arrived with five deer as a contribution to the meal. And many historians believe that most of the dishes were prepared using Wampanoag spices and cooking methods.

It’s also unlikely that pie – pumpkin or otherwise – was on the menu. Sugar was unheard of among Native Americans, although they did use honey and molasses to sweeten their food.

The Early American Settlers and Dental Health

It’s a good thing that the Pilgrims couldn’t feast on dessert because they had enough dental problems as it was! They didn’t have a children’s dentist (or a general dentist) among them. Instead, barber-surgeons trimmed hair, pulled teeth, and performed any other needed health services. And the settlers probably didn’t perform any type of dental hygiene. After all, they didn’t even like to bathe regularly!

All-Natural Remedies among Native Americans

All in all, the Wampanoag and other native tribes likely enjoyed better dental health. Most used “chew sticks” to keep their teeth clean, much like a modern toothbrush. They also chewed mint and other herbs to freshen their breath. And they rubbed charcoal on their teeth – an early form of teeth whitening.

Contact Your Children’s Dentist Today

Today, we are thankful to have made enormous strides in the way we care for our teeth, including routine exams and cleanings. To schedule an appointment with a great children’s dentist, contact our office today.

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

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

Should I take my child to a pediatric dentist before the New Year?

Pediatric Dentistry Mystery: Is thumb sucking bad for kids?

“Should I worry if my child’s baby teeth haven’t come in?” and Other FAQs

Telling a parent not to worry about their child is like telling the sun not to rise in the morning. It just isn’t going to happen! Sometimes it seems that, as parents, we are hardwired to worry about any little change that affects our kids. That’s why baby teeth can be so stressful for moms and dads. Is a teething delay a significant problem? How can you make teething easier for your little one? And what can you do to make sure they enjoy good oral health for life?

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids in Overland Park, KS, we’re here to make your job as a parent easier. While we can’t promise to make all your worries go away, Dr. Matt and his team will answer any questions you may have. Our preventive treatments can also protect your child’s baby teeth, and we offer a full range of services if any problems do come up.

We are proud to walk with you on this crazy parenting journey. Contact us with any questions or to schedule an appointment.

My child is older than six months, and they still don’t have any teeth. Should I be worried?

The short answer is no. Six months is the average age at which children get their first baby teeth. But some children begin teething much earlier, and others don’t have any teeth show up until after their first birthdays.

If your child hasn’t gotten any teeth by the time they turn one, go ahead and schedule an appointment with your pediatric dentist. In some cases, significantly delayed teething can indicate an underlying problem such as:

Inadequate nutrition
Fibrosis
Thyroid disorders
Hypopituitarism
Impacted teeth
Hypodontia (missing teeth)

In all likelihood, however, it will just be just a few more weeks till you see those first pearly whites.

What’s the best way to ease my child’s teething pain?

If possible, distract your little one with playing and cuddling. You can also try softly massaging the gums around the erupting tooth. Teething rings and edible teethers can also be beneficial. For children older than 3 months, you can try a pain reliever like children’s Tylenol^®. Be sure to check with your pediatrician for the correct dosage.

The FDA warns parents not to use teething gels or creams, including homeopathic varieties. These products are not proven effective and can have serious side effects, especially those containing benzocaine. Teething jewelry is also not recommended, as it can be a choking hazard.

When do I need to start brushing baby teeth?

Start brushing your child’s baby teeth as soon as they come in! In fact, good oral care should begin even before teething starts. Several times a day, especially after nursing or bottle feeding, wipe your baby’s gums with a soft cloth.

When should I schedule my child’s first dental appointment?

You should schedule an appointment with a pediatric dentist no more than six months after the first tooth erupts. Your practitioner will check your child’s dental development. More rigorous cleanings typically begin after children turn two.

Contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids Today

Still have questions about teething and baby teeth? Contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids 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!

Should I take my child to a pediatric dentist before the New Year?

Pediatric Dentistry Mystery: Is thumb sucking bad for kids?

Dentist in Overland Park, KS, Explains Premature Birth and Dental Health

November is National Prematurity Awareness Month. Premature babies may face enormous health challenges, and some, tragically, do not survive. But these tiny warriors are fierce fighters, and many demonstrate remarkable resilience and strength. Nonetheless, health problems may continue throughout life. And as your dentist in Overland Park, KS, can tell you, these challenges may also include dental problems.

If you are the parent of a premature baby, it’s important to include a pediatric dentist in your child’s healthcare team. Dr. Matt, Dr. Craven, and the entire team at Smiles Dentistry for Kids offer compassionate pediatric care. We understand the unique needs of children, including those born prematurely. We can assess your child’s oral development from a young age and provide ongoing care throughout their adolescent years.

To schedule an appointment with a pediatric dentist in Overland Park, KS, contact us today.

Prematurity: What You Should Know

A baby that is born before 37 weeks of pregnancy is considered premature. Premature birth affects 10.4% of all deliveries in the US. Babies born too early have a number of health risks, which increase based on how many weeks they were born before their due date. Fortunately, many of these issues resolve over time. But long term effects, such as cerebral palsy, learning disabilities, and vision loss may be permanent. Dental problems can also be lifelong.

Delayed Teething

Teething usually begins around six months of age. But for preterm babies, it can happen much later, especially if they were very premature. Fortunately, this does not typically indicate a larger problem. Still, if your preemie hasn’t started teething by age 1, you should schedule an evaluation with a dentist in Overland Park, KS.

Enamel Hypoplasia

Enamel hypoplasia is a condition that causes thin or missing dental enamel. Without this hard protective coating, teeth are more subject to sensitivity, cracking, and chipping. Moreover, hypoplastic teeth are twice as likely to have cavities as teeth with normal enamel.

For children with this condition, regular exams and cleanings are essential, and they may need more than two dental visits per year. If necessary, other treatments are available, including dental restorations and supplements to remineralize teeth.

Dental Discoloration

Enamel hypoplasia often causes teeth to have a yellow or brown tint. In very rare cases, jaundice, a common condition among preemies, can give teeth a greenish color. Typically, this only happens when babies have elevated bilirubin for months at a time. Fortunately, it only affects the baby teeth, though it can be distressing until the permanent teeth come in.

Palatal Groove

When babies spend a long time intubated, it can cause a groove to form in the hard palate. This anomaly can cause misaligned teeth, feeding problems, speech difficulties, and, in extreme cases, hearing loss.

Orthodontic Issues

Children born early are more likely to have dental malocclusion as they grow older. Researchers speculate that this is also due to intubation. Fortunately, braces are usually enough to correct the problem, and studies show that preemies are not more likely to experience jaw pain than babies born full term.

Contact a Dentist in Overland Park Today

Are you the parent of a tiny warrior? Contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids to schedule a consultation for your child.

Reach us 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!

Should I take my child to a pediatric dentist before the New Year?

Pediatric Dentistry Mystery: Is thumb sucking bad for kids?

Pediatric Dentistry Mystery: What causes crooked teeth?

It seems like orthodontic care is almost a rite of passage in the adolescent years. But can orthodontia be avoided? What causes crooked teeth in the first place? As it turns out, the answer is more complex than you might expect. And while you can reduce your child’s risk for dental misalignment, there are some risk factors that are simply out of your control.

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids in Overland Park, KS, Dr. Matt and Dr. Craven treat babies, teens, and everyone in between! By beginning dental care at a young age, we can sometimes prevent dental misalignment from occurring. And in those unavoidable cases, early detection can often reduce the severity of crooked teeth and shorten treatment time.

To schedule an exam for your child, contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids today.

Genetics

Unfortunately, if you have struggled with dental misalignment your child is more likely to have crooked teeth, too. Genetics can affect jaw and tooth size, jaw alignment, palate development, and many other factors.

Jaw Size

With a smaller jaw, there is not enough room for all adult teeth, and crowding may occur. Scientists believe that our ancient ancestors had much larger jaws. But as food became softer and more refined, humans evolved to have smaller jaws. As a result, dental crowding is a common problem.

Oral Habits

Thumb sucking, prolonged pacifier use, and long-term bottle feeding can all contribute to dental misalignment. To help protect your child’s smile, wean them from pacifiers and bottles around their first birthday. Thumb sucking is less problematic until permanent teeth start to erupt, but you should still discuss this habit with your child’s dentist.

Poor Diet and Oral Hygiene

Premature baby tooth loss may not seem like a major problem, but it can have far-reaching consequences for dental health. When baby teeth come out early, the nearby teeth can drift into the gap. In this way, they get in the way of the permanent teeth so there’s not enough room for them to erupt normally. A balanced diet and regular dental cleanings can protect those important baby teeth.

Why are crooked teeth a problem?

Cosmetics are the most obvious effect of missing teeth. But malocclusion can have far more serious consequences. Crowded and overlapping teeth can greatly increase the risk of decay, since food and bacteria will be more easily trapped in the tight spaces. Severe misalignment can also cause speech impediments.

What are the treatment options?

The right treatment will depend on your child’s age and the severity of misalignment. Some children benefit from early orthodontic intervention, such as palatal expanders, which will create more room for adult teeth. Though these kids will typically need braces at a later date, treatment time is usually much shorter.

Dr. Matt and Dr. Craven evaluate dental alignment at every routine exam. Then they can refer your child to a trusted orthodontist for appropriate care. They can also provide tips to improve oral health and reduce the risk of malocclusion.

Contact a Pediatric Dentist Today

To make an appointment for your child, contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids.

Reach us 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!

Should I take my child to a pediatric dentist before the New Year?

Pediatric Dentistry Mystery: Is thumb sucking bad for kids?

4 Truly Spooky Facts about Cavities

It’s the time of year for all things that go bump in the night. But if you really want to send shivers down your spine, don’t reach for a ghost story. Read up on the real life facts about tooth decay. Cavities are truly scary, not only because of their prevalence, but also because of their long-term effects. Fortunately, when you have a good pediatric dentist on speed dial, you can lay your fears to rest.

Dr. Matt, Dr. Craven, and the entire team at Smiles Dentistry for Kids are here for you! We know that you want the best for your child and that, when something goes wrong, it can be very scary. At our Overland Park, KS, practice, we are committed to thorough preventive care to keep cavities at bay. But if tooth decay does occur, we offer fast and effective treatment, specifically tailored for kids.

To learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment, contact us today.

1. Cavities Are Incredibly Common – Even Among Children!

Tooth decay is the most common health problem in the United States. 52% of children between the ages of 6 and 8 have had at least one cavity in their baby teeth. And 57% of teens have developed decay in their permanent teeth.

Factors that can increase the risk of tooth decay include:

Poor oral hygiene
A diet high in sugar
Insufficient fluoride intake
Genetics
Dry mouth

2. Untreated Tooth Decay Can Have Far-Reaching Health Effects.

Cavities in baby teeth might not seem like a big deal since your child will lose these teeth anyway. But early tooth decay can set the stage for a lifetime of oral problems. Untreated, these teeth will eventually come out, and, in turn, this can lead to widespread misalignment of adult teeth. Furthermore, when kids lose their teeth too early, it can affect oral development, including both speech and normal chewing patterns.

Untreated cavities can even cause systemic health problems. Eventually, a cavity may turn into an abscess. From there, bacteria can spread to other teeth and even to the heart and brain.

3. Prolonged Bottle Use Can Increase the Risk of Cavities.

To help prevent early childhood cavities, or “baby bottle tooth decay,” avoid putting your child to bed with a bottle. Teach your child to use a cup by their first birthday, and make sure they are drinking plenty of water. You can fill the cup with milk, formula, or breast milk with meals, but in between, pure H₂O is best!

4. You Can Pass Cavities on to Your Kids!

Cavities are caused by oral bacteria, and like most bacteria, these microbes are contagious. Though it’s common to share eating utensils and cups with kids, when you do so, you can pass cavity-causing bacteria on to your children. Of course, maintaining good hygiene yourself – through daily care and regular dental visits – is essential for your entire family’s oral health.

Contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids Today

Regular exams and cleanings can greatly reduce the risk of cavities in children. To schedule your appointment, contact us online or call (913) 685-9990.

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

Should I take my child to a pediatric dentist before the New Year?

Pediatric Dentistry Mystery: Is thumb sucking bad for kids?

How long should you be waiting to be seen in the dental office?

You’ve taken time off from work, and you’ve kept your child home from school so you can take him to the dentist. Now you’re stuck waiting to be seen in the dental office, watching the clock as time ticks away. Will you make it back to your own office for the big sales presentation? Will your child miss his math test and have to make it up?

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids in Overland Park, KS, we recognize that your time is valuable and that it is a privilege to treat your family. That is why Dr. Matt, Dr. Craven, and their team work hard to keep wait times to a minimum. And during the short period that you do have to wait, our brightly colored office and many amenities will keep you and your child happily entertained.

To schedule your (on-time) appointment, contact us today.

What makes wait times long?

One of the most common reasons for long waits is that other patients are late, which then pushes back subsequent appointments. Other things that may leave patients waiting to be seen in the dental office include:

Patients who have an emergency and need to be seen right away
Patients who have severe anxiety and need extra time to relax
Overscheduling
Understaffing
Technical malfunctions
Unexpected complications during procedures

How long should you have to wait?

Most of the time, a short wait is inevitable, but this time should definitely be kept to a minimum. According to surveys, patients who have to wait more than 20 minutes are more likely to report dissatisfaction with their dentist. Long wait times are even more problematic when we’re talking about kids, who often have a short attention span and find it difficult to hang around in a dental office.

So all that being said, you should really never have to wait more than 20 minutes for your appointment!

How to Reduce Your Time Waiting to Be Seen in the Dental Office

The most important thing you can do to ensure short wait times is to find a dentist who is committed to keeping things on schedule. At Smiles Dentistry for Kids, we recognize that your time is just as important as ours, and our team is committed to accurate scheduling and time keeping.

The other important thing you can do is to be on time yourself. Not only will this keep your wait time short; it will shorten the wait time for other patients. Of course, we know that things can come up unexpectedly, just as they can here in the office. If you know you are going to be late, call us. We may advise you to come in at another time. Or we may go ahead and treat a patient who is already on site, seeing you afterwards.

Contact Us for Convenient, Efficient Care

Family life is busy enough without waiting to be seen in the dental office. Find a dentist with consistently positive reviews, who respects your time and that of your kids.

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

Should I take my child to a pediatric dentist before the New Year?

Pediatric Dentistry Mystery: Is thumb sucking bad for kids?

Pediatric Dentist Describes Teething Symptoms and How to Alleviate Pain

Has your normally happy baby been screaming all day and refusing to be out of your sight? There’s a good chance she’s teething! Cutting teeth is no joke, and it can cause a whole host of symptoms. Your pediatric dentist can tell you what to expect, what’s normal, and what’s not. And he can also share the best – and safest! – ways to reduce teething pain.

As pediatric dentists, Dr. Matt and Dr. Tara love working with kids. And as a dad, Dr. Matt is all too familiar with the drama, tears, and rough nights that come with teething. That’s why he and the team at Smiles Dentistry for Kids in Overland Park, KS, are here to help! We’re always here to answer questions and, of course, to provide quality dental care once those teeth have come in.

When can you expect teething to start?

Did you know that your child is already born with all 20 baby teeth formed beneath the gums? Typically, these teeth will start to erupt between the ages of 6 and 12 months. However, many babies start teething earlier, and some may get their first pearly whites after their first birthday. Nonetheless, if your child hasn’t started teething by the time he turns one, it’s best to see a pediatric dentist for an evaluation.

The bottom two front teeth are usually the first to come in. Teeth will continue to erupt until your child gets his second molars around the time he turns two.

Normal Teething Symptoms

Teething can manifest itself in many different ways. The most common symptoms include:

Low-grade fever (less than 100.4 degrees F)
Drooling
Excessive chewing and biting
Facial rash, due to drool
Pulling on ears
Fussiness and irritability
Unusual waking in the night
Loss of appetite

Keep in mind, however, that just as children get their teeth on their own timeline, they experience symptoms in their own way. In one of the few large-scale teething studies, only 35% of children experienced the same symptoms.

Effective Ways to Help Your Child

Of course, it hurts you to see your child in pain. Fortunately, there are several effective ways that you can reduce teething discomfort.

Gently massaging your baby’s gums
Offering a safe, rubber teether. Try placing it in the freezer for extra relief. Avoid frozen, water-filled teethers and anything made from brittle plastic. Only use items that are intended to be teethers.
For children who are already enjoying solids, offer an edible teether or large teething cracker.

Do not use numbing benzocaine. The FDA has warned that benzocaine can lead to a life-threatening blood disorder in children under age 2.

Once your child has gotten her first tooth, you should schedule an appointment with a pediatric dentist no more than six months later. Your dentist will monitor your child’s dental development and offer guidance on good oral hygiene.

Contact a Pediatric Dentist Today

For more information about teething or to schedule an appointment with a pediatric dentist, contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids.

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!

Should I take my child to a pediatric dentist before the New Year?

Pediatric Dentistry Mystery: Is thumb sucking bad for kids?

Pediatric Dentistry Mystery: Is fluoride safe for children?

Fluoride has been a subject of debate for many years. Concerned parents often raise questions about its safety and efficacy. Luckily, Dr. Matt is here to help demystify this pediatric dentistry mystery.

If your little one is prone to cavities, then fluoride treatments at Smiles Dentistry for Kids in Overland Park, KS, can help. Contact our friendly, fun, and compassionate team today at (913) 685-9990 to learn more!

As with any medical treatment, there are always risks and benefits to consider. In today’s blog, we explore the importance of fluoride in promoting oral and overall health in children while addressing possible risks and benefits.

The Benefits of Fluoride

When it comes to your child’s smile, the benefits of fluoride cannot be overstated. Let’s explore what this wonderful mineral can do for developing smiles!

Stronger Teeth

Tooth enamel is like a shield for our teeth. It helps protect our smile from the acids produced by oral bacteria. But weak or thinning enamel can lead to serious problems, like dental decay.

Fluoride helps fortify enamel, making teeth more resistant to acid-producing oral bacteria. As a result, regular fluoride treatments help prevent cavities.

Promote Healthy Childhood Development

Children with poor oral health are more likely to experience pain, difficulty eating, and impaired speech development. Dental issues can also lead to systemic infections and negatively impact a child’s overall growth and development.

Fluoride prevents these issues by strengthening teeth and preventing an overgrowth of harmful oral bacteria in the mouth. In fact, some research suggests that fluoride in drinking water, toothpaste, and dental treatments may have a dual effect:

The fluoride minerals bind to teeth, thereby strengthening them
The fluoride minerals damage bacterial cell membranes, thereby keeping oral bacteria at bay

Possible Risks

There are very few downsides to fluoride treatments for children. However, some possible risks do exist, such as:

Dental Fluorosis

Excessive fluoride exposure during tooth development can lead to dental fluorosis, a cosmetic issue that causes white or brown discoloration of the enamel. However, dental fluorosis is generally mild and primarily an aesthetic concern.

Overconsumption

Excessive consumption of fluoride, whether through toothpaste ingestion or drinking water with high natural fluoride levels, can lead to health issues like skeletal fluorosis. However, these cases are extremely rare and typically occur in regions with naturally elevated fluoride levels in the water.

The Importance of Fluoride for Children’s Health

Our pediatric dentist in Overland Park, KS, recommends fluoride treatments for children as soon as they start sprouting teeth. Here’s why:

Early Prevention

Fluoride plays a pivotal role in preventive dentistry by strengthening tooth enamel and reducing the risk of cavities. Early oral health habits established in childhood often persist into adulthood, making it crucial to start dental care early.

Cost-Effective

Treating cavities and related complications can be expensive and time-consuming. By investing in fluoride-based preventive measures, parents and caregivers can save both money and their children’s dental health.

Overall Health

Oral health is interconnected with overall health. That means that poor oral hygiene in childhood can have far-reaching consequences well into adulthood.

Fluoride fosters the delicate connection between oral and overall health by controlling cavity-causing bacteria and strengthening children’s teeth and bones.

Schedule a Fluoride Treatment for Your Little One Today

Fluoride is a valuable tool in promoting children’s oral and overall health. While there are some potential risks, they are minimal when fluoride exposure is monitored and controlled.

As parents and caregivers, it is our responsibility to ensure that children receive the benefits of fluoride through appropriate dental care. So, be sure to schedule regular check-ups and fluoride treatments at Smiles Dentistry for Kids in Overland Park, KS, to keep your kiddo’s smile happy and healthy! Schedule an appointment online, or dial (913) 685-9990 for more.

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

Should I take my child to a pediatric dentist before the New Year?