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Sometimes, in the midst of pressures like school and extracurriculars, it’s easy to let oral hygiene slide. Fortunately, adopting healthy oral habits just takes a few simple changes. By making these adjustments, you can help protect your kids’ teeth from decay and structural damage. And you will be setting them up with good routines for life!

Dr. Matt, Dr. Craven, and their team at Smiles Dentistry for Kids are committed to helping children enjoy the best possible dental health. We encourage you to schedule regular visits at our Overland Park, KS, office. At each appointment we will teach both you and your child the best ways to care for your smile

Contact us today to schedule an appointment. 

1. Brush Twice a Day

While you know the importance of brushing, you may not know that there is a proper way to brush. The American Dental Association recommends using a soft-bristled brush and holding it at a 45-degree angle to your teeth. Use short, back-and-forth strokes to clean each tooth. Use vertical strokes to clean the backs of your front teeth.

2. Floss Once a Day 

Flossing also ranks high among healthy oral habits. And, as with brushing, there is a correct way to do so. According to the ADA, you should use about 18 inches of floss, wrapping each end around one finger. Unspool the floss as you go, so that you are using a new section of floss between each tooth. Apply a gliding, rather than a snapping motion, which can damage your gums. And use a C-shaped movement to clean between the top of each tooth and the gum line. Children may need help with this technique for quite some time.

3. Drink Plenty of Water

Water is not only essential for physical health (especially as we approach the hot summer months). Drinking water is also among the key healthy oral habits. Water helps to stimulate saliva production and to wash away food particles. It’s also one of the healthiest beverages. Juices and sodas contain high levels of sugar, which can be devastating for kids’ teeth. 

4. Wear a Sports Mouthguard 

If your child plays contact sports, an athletic mouthguard is crucial. These devices can prevent serious damage to your kid’s teeth, as well as lacerations and facial injuries. You can purchase pre-made mouthguards, but they often don’t fit well and could even impede breathing and athletic performance. Instead, we recommend a custom mouthguard, provided by your pediatric dentist.

5. Visit the Dentist Twice a Year 

Of course, no list of healthy oral habits would be complete without mentioning routine dental visits. At every checkup, we will examine and clean your child’s teeth. We also monitor dental development, and typically once a year, we will take x-rays.

These appointments should begin much earlier than you may realize. Children should visit the dentist once their first tooth arrives or by their first birthday, whichever comes first. We believe so strongly in the importance of early dental care that we offer free exams and cleanings for kids under age 2.

Learn More Healthy Oral Habits When You Contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids 

Contact our office to schedule an appointment or to learn more about kids’ dental health. 

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

Smiles Dentistry For Kids

14700 Metcalf Ave, Suite 110
Overland Park, KS 66223
(913) 685-9990
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
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This past May 5 was widely celebrated as Cinco de Mayo. But we also celebrated National Astronaut Day! The first American in space, Alan Bartlett Sheperd, Jr., launched into the atmosphere on May 5, 1961. The anniversary has since been dedicated to inspiring everyone to “reach for the stars.” A fun way to celebrate is to learn how astronauts do daily tasks in space, including caring for their teeth.

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids in Overland Park, KS, Dr. Matt and Dr. Craven appreciate the insatiable curiosity of children. That’s why we love to answer their questions, including (when we can) the unexpected queries, like, “How do astronauts brush their teeth?” We also encourage kids to reach for the stars with their own oral health by practicing outstanding dental hygiene. 

To schedule an appointment for your child or to learn more about dental care for kids, contact our office today.

Dental Health Is Vital for Astronauts

If you want to be an astronaut, bravery and keen intelligence aren’t the only requirements. Astronauts must also have a clean bill of dental health before being allowed to enter orbit. Though good dentistry is important for everyone, it’s all the more vital for astronauts. This is because they are under tremendous pressure from G-forces during launch. Untreated decay or loose cavities can cause immense discomfort.  

Brushing and Rinsing without Gravity

So how do astronauts keep their teeth healthy while they are in space? Isn’t it impossible to rinse and spit when there’s no gravity to keep things in place?

As it turns out, brushing in space isn’t too much different from brushing on earth. Astronauts use standard toothbrushes and toothpaste, usually sharing the same tube among crew members. After squeezing a drop of water onto the toothbrush from their water bags, they apply a small amount of toothpaste and brush thoroughly. When they’re done, they simply swallow the toothpaste. Then they use another drop of water to clean off the toothbrush, often physically sucking the water off the brush. If you want to see the process in person, you can watch astronaut Chris Hadfield here.  

A word of advice: typically swallowing toothpaste isn’t encouraged. Consuming large amounts of toothpaste can lead to stomach pain and even blockage of the intestines. Even regularly swallowing a bit too much can result in a fluoride build-up, which can create white spots on your teeth. But in space, waste management is a high priority. So astronauts use small amounts of toothpaste that will not cause bodily harm when swallowed. 

Dental Emergencies in Space 

Another reason that dental health is so important for astronauts? There aren’t any dentists in orbit. Crew medical members (CMOs) have some medical training and are authorized to perform emergency dental treatment, including extractions. But in many cases, CMOs just don’t have enough dental knowledge. As a result, an oral health problem could result in an astronaut being sent home early.

Reach for the Stars with Your Own Dental Hygiene 

Whether your child aspires to be an astronaut or simply wants to have an out-of-this-world smile, contact our office for great pediatric dental care. 

Send us a message online or call us at (913) 685-9990.

Smiles Dentistry For Kids

14700 Metcalf Ave, Suite 110
Overland Park, KS 66223
(913) 685-9990
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
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As children enter their teenage years, it’s natural for them to want to express themselves. But if your teen’s desired form of self-expression is an oral piercing, it may fill you with dismay. First, be aware that minors may not get an oral piercing without parental consent. But if you feel that you should support your child, it’s important for both of you to be aware of the complications of oral piercings as discussed by your pediatric dentist in Overland Park, KS

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids, we offer great dental care for youth of all ages. We understand that each stage of childhood brings new challenges, and we want to help parents face these challenges with our knowledge and expertise. Whether your child already faces dental complications as a result of an oral piercing, or you are simply trying to discourage them from making this decision, we invite you to schedule an appointment with us.

Contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids today.

What are oral piercings?

There are several types of oral piercings, but tongue piercings are by far the most common. Most frequently, the tongue is pierced in the middle. But the tip can also be pierced. Some people opt to have two piercings on either side of the tongue.

Other locations for oral piercings can include the lip, cheek, uvula, or frenum (the tissue that attaches the tongue to the bottom of the mouth.)

Oral Piercings and Dental Health

Oral piercings can cause tooth erosion, as the mouth jewelry comes in frequent contact with the teeth. This is especially common with tongue tip piercings. This type of piercing can also lead to diastema, or a gap between the two front teeth, particularly if a person continuously manipulates his or her tongue piercing. 

Oral Piercings and Gum Health

Periodontal complications are even more common following an oral piercing. In fact, 50% of those with lip piercings and 44% of those with tongue piercings have reported gum erosion. In turn, receding gums can dramatically affect a person’s appearance, giving their teeth an elongated look. Even more alarming, gum recession can lead to exposed tooth roots, severe dental sensitivity, and tooth loss

Further, without vigilant hygiene and cleanings, oral piercings often trap and harbor bacteria, which can cause tooth decay and gum disease. 

Oral Piercings and Overall Health Complications 

Aside from dental complications, oral piercings can be dangerous for systemic health. For one, the tongue is a highly vascular area, so if the piercing is not performed properly, it can lead to prolonged bleeding. The tongue could also swell, which could block the airway and cause difficulty breathing

Though rare, mouth jewelry could become embedded in other soft tissues, necessitating surgical removal. And some people have experienced life threatening complications because of their oral piercings. For all of these reasons, the American Dental Association (and your pediatric dentist in Overland Park, KS) advise against this practice. 

Book an Appointment for Your Teen with a Pediatric Dentist in Overland Park, KS

Think your teen might be more receptive to advice coming from someone else? Feel free to book an appointment with us!

Contact us online or give us a call at (913) 685-9990. 

Smiles Dentistry For Kids

14700 Metcalf Ave, Suite 110
Overland Park, KS 66223
(913) 685-9990
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
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Just when we think a subject is over our kids’ heads, they chime in with questions. That’s why it’s important to broach the subject of cavities from a young age. Introducing the topic of dental decay will motivate them to care for their teeth. And if they are already suffering from cavities, it’s important to know how to explain what is going on while simultaneously offering comfort. 

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids in Overland Park, KS, our primary goal is the prevention of tooth decay and other problems. By offering routine care from a very young age, Dr. Matt and Dr. Craven want to help your children enjoy healthy smiles for life. But when issues do come up, we can provide comprehensive, child-centered care. Moreover, we know how to explain what is going on in a simple way that kids will find easy to understand

Whether you are in need of a routine cleaning or restorative care, contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids

Simplify the Science

It’s important to be upfront and honest with our children. So when you are explaining tooth decay, tell them what actually happens. Just use language and terminology that they can understand. 

Try something like this: 

Mouth germs love sugar. So when we eat lots of sugar, lots of mouth germs start to grow. Eventually, they will get so hungry that sugar won’t be enough. They’ll start eating your teeth, too! Little holes will appear, and your teeth could really start to hurt. These little holes are called cavities. 

Stress the Importance of Dental Care

Let your kids know that when they brush or floss their teeth, or when they visit the dentist, it helps to fight the bad mouth germs so they don’t make cavities. You can also share with them that, though a little sugar is ok, too much sugar will make it harder and harder to fight the mouth germs.

Let Them Know They’re Not Alone 

If your child does develop cavities, he or she may feel isolated or ashamed. Are they the only one with yucky mouth germs making holes in their teeth? Not at all! 52% of children aged 6 to 8 have had at least one baby tooth cavity. And 57% of those aged 12 to 19 have sustained decay in at least one permanent tooth. 

Help Them Overcome Fear

If your child has a cavity, it’s important to prepare them for their upcoming treatment. In most cases, your dentist will recommend a filling. You can tell your child what to expect, letting them know that the dentist will use a special material to fill in the hole in their tooth. Their tooth will be numb, so they shouldn’t feel anything, and afterwards the tooth should be as good as new.

You could also try reading books about the dentist. If your child is particularly anxious, consider bringing them to the office ahead of time. We can show them where their treatment will take place and help them understand a little bit more about what will happen. 

Contact Us to Prevent or Treat Kids’ Cavities 

For more information about kids’ dental health or to schedule an appointment, contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids. 

Reach out via our website or call 913-685-9990. 

Smiles Dentistry For Kids

14700 Metcalf Ave, Suite 110
Overland Park, KS 66223
(913) 685-9990
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
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Your child opens his mouth, and you see white stuff covering his tongue. You freak out! What the heck is that? In all likelihood, it’s thrush, a common yeast infection in the mouth. It looks alarming, but thrush is usually fairly harmless, although in rare cases it can spread beyond the mouth. Fortunately, a good pediatric dentist can treat thrush and provide tips to reduce the risk of future infections.

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids in Overland Park, KS, Dr. Matt and Dr. Craven are experts in all manner of pediatric oral problems, including thrush. Once your little one’s infection has cleared up, we can also provide complete dental care, including exams and cleanings. 

To learn more about thrush or to get appropriate treatment, contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids today.

What is thrush?

Thrush is an oral yeast infection, also known as oral candidiasis. It typically causes white, creamy looking sores to appear on the tongue and insides of the cheeks. The sores may bleed slightly when they are scraped. Your child may also experience a slight loss of taste, a cottony or burning feeling, or a nasty taste in the mouth. 

Babies, of course, will not be able to communicate these symptoms. But you may notice fussiness and irritability, as well as difficulty feeding

Why does thrush occur?

Many people have the Candida albicans (C. albicans) fungus in their mouths, and for most it is not a problem. However, when fungal overgrowth occurs, a thrush infection will develop. These infections are particularly likely to affect infants and small children because their immune systems are still developing. In fact, an estimated 5-7% of babies under a month old will suffer from thrush.

Thrush can also affect infants if their moms have a history of vaginal yeast infections. In these cases, infection can pass to the babies during delivery. C. albicans can also pass back and forth between baby and mom if the infant is breastfeeding

Treating Thrush

Your dentist or pediatrician can easily treat thrush with a prescription antifungal medication. Infection will usually go away in about 4 to 5 days, though it’s important to continue using the medication as directed.

If you are a nursing mom and experience any signs of infection on your breasts, you should call your own healthcare provider. She will most likely prescribe a topical antifungal cream and, potentially, oral medications, as well. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly after applying the medication. You can continue breastfeeding while you and your baby take your medications

Preventing Thrush

To prevent thrush from occurring or to prevent a recurrence of the infection, be sure that your child maintains proper oral hygiene. For older children, this means daily brushing and flossing. For infants, it means wiping their gums with a soft cloth several times a day. You can also prevent thrush by thoroughly sterilizing all pacifiers and bottle nipples. 

Contact Us for More Pediatric Dentistry Information

Parenthood is a wild ride, and we know it can be a stressful one for parents. That’s why we are always here to answer questions and provide guidance. 

Contact our office online to learn more about thrush or other oral health concerns. You can also call us at 913-685-9990. 

Smiles Dentistry For Kids

14700 Metcalf Ave, Suite 110
Overland Park, KS 66223
(913) 685-9990
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
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When you are watching your little one’s new teeth come in, a mix of feelings may arise. You are excited to see those pearly whites come through, but you may also feel distraught about the pain that your child is experiencing. Fortunately, there are several easy remedies to alleviate discomfort, including teething toys. While these toys are generally safe, you should be careful to choose the right ones and to use them appropriately.

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids in Overland Park, KS, we can provide tips and tricks to make teething easier for you and your child. We are happy to recommend some appropriate teething toys, as well as other methods of pain relief. And once your child’s teeth do come in, we can provide outstanding care to keep them strong and healthy. 

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

How do teething toys help?

When a tooth is coming in, it puts pressure on the gums from underneath. By chewing on a teether, a baby can put a counter pressure on the area, essentially giving himself a mini gum massage

Teething toys may also play a crucial role in development. Babies often explore their world orally, which helps to foster facial awareness and tongue strength, important skills for speech. Teethers allow your child to develop these skills safely.

Which teethers should I avoid?

When it comes to teething toys, there are many different shapes and materials to choose from, including plastic, rubber, silicone, and wood. While most teething toys marketed as such will be safe for your baby to use, there are a few guidelines to keep in mind:

  • When purchasing a teether, make sure it does not contain phthalates or BPA.
  • Avoid used teethers, as older toys may not meet current safety standards.
  • If your child is a very aggressive chewer, it may be better to avoid silicone teethers with bristles. There is a risk that a piece could come off and pose a choking hazard.
  • Do not choose teething toys filled with gel or liquid, as these could potentially leak. 
  • Amber teething necklaces have an almost cult-like following. However, the AAP strongly opposes the use of teething jewelry, which can be both a choking and a strangulation hazard.

Other Safety Precautions 

In addition to choosing the right teething toys, it’s important to ensure that you are following appropriate safety standards. First, as any parent of a drooling baby can tell you, teethers can get very, very wet. And wet environments are ideal habitats for mold. You can clean most teething toys with warm, soapy water. Some are even dishwasher safe! If your teether comes with special cleaning instructions, be sure to follow them precisely.

Some parents like to put their baby’s teethers in the freezer. While the cooling sensation can be helpful for infants and toddlers, don’t leave the toy in long enough to actually freeze. Hard silicone and rubber can damage your baby’s gums. 

Contact Us for More Information about Teething Pain Relief 

If you want to know about specific teething toys, or you are looking for other ways to alleviate teething symptoms, contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids today.

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

Smiles Dentistry For Kids

14700 Metcalf Ave, Suite 110
Overland Park, KS 66223
(913) 685-9990
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm

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Dental care seems straightforward. And certainly there are some established guidelines; brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits are standard protocol. But if you want to give your child the best possible oral health, there are a few unexpected tips that you should know. Of course, along with dental care at home, it is important to find a great pediatric dentist in Overland Park, KS

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids, Dr. Matt and Dr. Craven are passionate about giving children a solid foundation for lifelong oral health. Preventive care is our focus, including exams and cleanings, as well as patient and parent education. But when problems do arise, we are ready to address them with low-stress, kid-friendly treatments. 

For more tips about dental care to to schedule your appointment with a pediatric dentist in Overland Park, KS, contact our office today.

1. Oral Care Should Begin Even Before Your Child Has Teeth!

Even before your child has teeth, oral bacteria can still build up in the mouth, feeding off of the starches in breast milk or formula. Since you won’t always know that a tooth is erupting, it’s a good idea to start cleaning your baby’s gums at a very young age. This will also acclimate your child to oral care and may make tooth brushing easier in the long run.

To clean your infant’s gums, simply wipe them down with a soft cloth or piece of gauze.

2. Start Dental Visits Early On

Just as oral care should begin much earlier than you might expect, so should dental visits. The American Dental Association recommends that children have their first dental visits soon after their first tooth comes in and no later than their first birthdays. Even if your child hasn’t started teething by twelve months, you should schedule an appointment. 

Your pediatric dentist in Overland Park, KS, believes so firmly in the importance of early dental visits that we offer free exams and cleanings for children under age 2.

3. Have Your Child Brush Before Breakfast

Brushing first thing in the morning will remove the bacteria that build up overnight. It may also help to protect teeth against acid in breakfast foods, and it can promote saliva production. 

If your after-breakfast brushing routine is set, wait at least 30 minutes after eating to keep from rubbing food particles into your child’s tooth enamel. 

4. Use Fluoride Toothpaste from a Young Age

Many children’s toothpastes carry labels proudly proclaiming, “Fluoride Free!” But in reality, it’s better to use fluoride toothpaste from the outset. Fluoride helps to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent decay. Just be sure to use the right amount for your child’s age, and there is no reason to worry.

5. Beware of “Healthy” Drinks

A lot of drinks marketed as healthy products are actually full of sugar, either added or naturally occurring. Even no-sugar-added juice can be harmful to children’s teeth. The best choices are water and milk. If your child insists on having juice, limit it appropriately and dilute it with water, if possible. 

Contact a Pediatric Dentist in Overland Park, KS, Today

For more tips for a healthy smile, contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids Today. 

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

Smiles Dentistry For Kids

14700 Metcalf Ave, Suite 110
Overland Park, KS 66223
(913) 685-9990
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm

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Cracked or broken teeth are among the most common injuries sustained by young children and teens. Fortunately, with parental diligence and supervision, these injuries are often preventable. And when they do occur, they can often be treated with conservative methods. With the right pediatric dentist on call, there is no reason to worry about your child’s long-term appearance or dental health

Dr. Matt and Dr. Craven of Smiles Dentistry for Kids are the doctors you want on speed dial if accidents happen. We know the best and most effective ways to care for little teeth. Our entire Overland Park, KS, team can put even very scared children at ease. And we are happy to provide guidance in the prevention of pediatric dental injuries. 

To learn more or to schedule an appointment, contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids today.

What are the different types of cracks? 

Cracks can vary in appearance and severity. 

  • Craze lines appear on the outer surface only and do not affect the softer interior of a tooth. They do not usually require treatment. 
  • A chipped tooth also affects only the dental enamel. It does not require treatment, although many choose it to improve their appearance. 
  • A fractured cusp occurs when a piece of the chewing surface breaks off. It may or may not expose the inner pulp, but will require treatment either way.
  • A cracked tooth is one in which a crack begins on the chewing surface and travels down towards the gums. 
  • If a crack travels all the way down to the dental root, this is characterized as a split tooth.
  • With a vertical root fracture, the crack begins at the bottom of the dental root and travels upwards towards the chewing surface.

Oral Hygiene and Cracked Teeth 

Decay below the surface can weaken the entire tooth, making it more prone to injury. This is why daily brushing and flossing, along with biannual dental visits, are so importanteven for the youngest children.

Bruxism, or teeth grinding, can also weaken teeth, making structural damage more likely. If your child chronically grinds their teeth, we can provide a custom-made mouthguard to be worn at night.

Accidents, Injuries, and Dental Damage

Toddlers often break teeth because of their still-developing motor skills and the likelihood of falls. To reduce the risk of damage, childproof your home, covering the sharp edges and corners of furniture and removing trip hazards. Closely supervise young children when they first become mobile, and do not allow them to walk around the house with a cup or bottle. 

Approximately 25% of school-age children will eventually damage a tooth, and most of this damage is the result of accident or injury. For older kids, sports injuries are often to blame. If your child plays a contact sport, be sure to ask us about a sports mouthguard. Our custom appliances are much more comfortable than over-the-counter versions and are less likely to impact breathing and athletic performance. 

Contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids 

Treatment for a cracked tooth will depend on the type and severity of the damage. Contact us to schedule an appointment for your child. 

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

Smiles Dentistry For Kids

14700 Metcalf Ave, Suite 110
Overland Park, KS 66223
(913) 685-9990
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm

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Routinely brushing teeth is foundational for good oral health, and it’s just as important for kids as it is for adults. But teaching your kids about how to brush can be intimidating. After all, even some grown-ups struggle to care for their teeth properly. Fortunately, teaching good oral hygiene is an incremental process. As your child grows, so can his or her own level of responsibility. 

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids in Overland Park, KS, we believe that patient education is a big part of our job. We don’t simply want to treat our patients. We want them to enjoy good oral health for life. That’s why Dr. Matt and Dr. Craven are always ready to answer questions and to provide age-appropriate instruction. 

For more information about kids’ oral hygiene or to schedule an appointment, contact our office today.

When should we start? 

You should start brushing your child’s teeth as soon as the first one comes in. It may feel ridiculous to be brushing one tiny tooth, but it sets a pattern that can ensure a lifetime of good habits. Plus, it helps to remove the bacteria and plaque that can accumulate on even the newest teeth.

Actually, you can start “brushing” before your child even has any teeth. After breast or bottle-feeding, wipe down his gums with a soft, wet cloth or a piece of gauze. 

What kind of toothbrush/toothpaste should we use?

Use a soft-bristled brush, which will be more comfortable for tender gums. Soft toothbrushes are actually better for the whole family, since hard bristles can erode protective dental enamel. 

Though you may see a lot of fluoride-free toothpastes marketed for kids, it’s really better to use a fluoridated product. Just be sure to choose one with the ADA seal of acceptance. And apply an appropriate amount: a smear the size of a grain of rice for children under 3, and a pea-sized dollop for older kids.

When is my child old enough to brush his own teeth?

The American Dental Association recommends brushing your child’s teeth for him until he is about 6. This will ensure that he is doing the job properly and not accidentally swallowing the toothpaste. 

However, timelines for kids are always individual. Some kids may be ready earlier, others later. Regardless of when you start allowing him to actually handle the toothbrush, continue to supervise the process until you are fully confident in your child’s abilities. 

How do I teach my child to brush her teeth?

If you’ve been doing a good job in the first few years, some kids may pick up on brushing teeth right away. Others may need a little help. To encourage proper brushing: 

  • Before you fully relinquish the activity to your child, let her brush on her own for a minute or two before you take over. You can begin this as early as age 2 or 3.
  • Have your child watch you brush your own teeth. 
  • Brush your teeth together.
  • Remind her to hold the toothbrush at a proper angle
  • Set a timer for two minutes.
  • Choose a rewards system, like a sticker chart. 

Learn More about Brushing Teeth and Other Oral Hygiene 

For more tips about brushing teeth and other dental health concerns, contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids today.

Reach our office online or call (913) 685-9990.

Smiles Dentistry For Kids

14700 Metcalf Ave, Suite 110
Overland Park, KS 66223
(913) 685-9990
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm

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Your child’s smile lights up your world, so a few crooked teeth may not seem like a big deal. But while we agree that every smile is uniquely beautiful, orthodontic issues can cause some widespread health problems, affecting everything from speech to mental wellbeing. That’s why it’s important to address dental misalignment as early as possible.

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids in Overland Park, KS, we encourage parents to bring their kids in as soon as their first teeth appear. That way, Dr. Matt and Dr. Craven can monitor dental development and look for any early signs of misalignment. As your child gets older, we can recommend appropriate treatment, referring you to a trusted orthodontist, if needed. We can also help to minimize the related effects of crooked teeth.

To schedule an appointment for your child, contact us today.

1. Increased Risk for Tooth Decay and Gum Disease

Even slightly crooked teeth can increase your child’s risk for oral health problems. When teeth overlap, it’s more difficult to clean between them and more likely that food and bacteria will become trapped. This allows plaque and tartar to build up, eventually penetrating the interior of the teeth and causing cavities. 

Bacteria can also spread below the gums, where they will create pockets. This condition is known as gum disease, and it can cause significant pain, bleeding, and even tooth loss.  

2. Bad Breath

When bacteria and plaque are stuck between the teeth, it can also lead to chronic bad breath, or halitosis. If your child has unexpectedly potent morning breath, crooked teeth could be to blame. (Though this is certainly not the only reason for bad breath.)

3. Speech Problems 

The teeth play a key role in the pronunciation of fricative sounds (e.g., “f,” “s,” and “sh,” among others) and affricate sounds (“ch” and “j”). If your child has significantly misaligned teeth, it can affect tongue placement and the pronunciation of those sounds. Lisps and mumbling may also be the result of crooked teeth. Note that in some cases, your child may need speech therapy, in addition to orthodontic treatment.

4. Potential for TMJ Disorder

If your child’s overall bite is misaligned, this could strain their jaw joints (TMJs), inflaming the muscles or even damaging the joints themselves. One or two crooked teeth are unlikely to cause such severe effects, so in these cases, your child may need more significant orthodontic treatment.

5. Decreased Self-Esteem

You think your child’s smile is beautiful no matter what, but adolescents can be very self-conscious about their appearance, especially if they are teased or bullied. Alarmingly, low-self esteem can lead to even more serious consequences. 75% of teenage girls with low self-esteem report engaging in self-destructive activities, like cutting, drinking, smoking, or disordered eating. And boys can also be quite embarrassed by their looks.

Fortunately, there are many subtle orthodontic treatments that can enable teens and adolescents to straighten crooked teeth without the embarrassment of traditional metal braces.

Contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids 

Learn more about dental alignment and find out the right treatment option for your child. 

Contact our Overland Park office to book an appointment. You can reach us online or call or text (913) 685-9990.

Smiles Dentistry For Kids

14700 Metcalf Ave, Suite 110
Overland Park, KS 66223
(913) 685-9990
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8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm

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