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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
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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
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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
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
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When your child is in high school or early college, they are likely exploring professional interests and career opportunities. If they have expressed an interest in dentistry, you may be feeling excited by their desire to enter the medical field. Or you may be a bit apprehensive, wondering exactly what it takes to become a dentist. In this post, your pediatric dentist outlines the major steps involved in pursuing a dental career. 

Dr. Matt and Dr. Craven can heartily recommend dentistry as a vocation! We love our jobs, and we love our patients at Smiles Dentistry for Kids in Overland Park, KS. Whether your child pursues general dentistry, or they become a specialist like a pediatric dentist, they have a fantastic opportunity to make a difference in their patients’ lives. 

If you want to learn more about a career in dentistry, or you simply need to schedule an appointment with a pediatric dentist, contact our office today.

Undergraduate Education 

To become a dentist, your teen will first need to earn a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university. A degree in biology or another science can be helpful, but it is not essential. However, dental schools do require a certain number of science credits. If your child does not earn a degree in the sciences, they may need to take some additional classes before applying to graduate school.

A few colleges offer a pre-dentistry track. Pre-med tracks are much more common and can give your child an extra edge in dental school acceptance. If your child is still in high school, encourage them to take AP science. AP classes may allow them to opt out of basic science and jump into higher-level college courses.

Graduate School 

Before applying to dental school, an applicant must first take the Dental Admissions Test (DAT). The DAT is a 4.5 hour test that includes 180 questions. Dental schools have individual admission score requirements, so it’s important to check the schools in which your child is interested. 

Once accepted, a dental student will typically earn a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) or a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree in four years. The two degrees are essentially the same and differ only in name. The first two years of dental school are spent in the classroom, and the second two years consist mostly of clinical work. 

Areas of Specialization 

After earning their degree, if dentists wish to pursue a specialization, they must typically complete a two to three-year residency, focused on their particular area of interest. 

Among others, specializations can include

  • Pediatric dentistry
  • Endodontics
  • Orthodontics
  • Oral and maxillofacial surgery 
  • Periodontics 
  • Prosthodontics
  • Dental anesthesiology 

Certifications and Accreditations 

After completing their training, students must pass their licensure exams. From there, dentists can apply for positions or start their own practices. However, even after they are established, they need to take a certain amount of continuing education credits each year. Each state has their own required number of hours. 

Though not required, certifications and accreditations often allow dentists to provide a higher level of care. Recognition by outside organizations can also open up career opportunities that might not otherwise be available. 

Contact a Pediatric Dentist Today 

Learn more about how to become a general or pediatric dentist. Contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids 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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You’ve likely heard of TMJ disorder, a common cause of jaw pain and malfunction. But if your child complains of facial pain, you may assume that it’s not TMD. After all, that’s not a common complaint among kids, is it? Actually, TMJ disorder is far more prevalent among children and adolescents than it is among adults. Fortunately, most cases of pediatric TMD are quite mild and require minimal treatment, such as self-care or a night guard. It’s only in rare, severe cases that more dramatic treatment is required.

If your child has complained of jaw pain, the team at Smiles Dentistry for Kids in Overland Park, KS, can diagnose the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment. And if your child has a more advanced case, we can collaborate with their entire care team to ensure a comprehensive continuum of treatment. 

Contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids to schedule a diagnostic consultation. 

What is TMJ Disorder?

TMJ disorder is a condition that causes pain and inflammation in the temporomandibular joints, or TMJs. These joints are located on either side of the jaw and connect the lower jaw to the skull. 

It’s easy to assume that kids are unlikely to suffer from TMD, but in fact, the condition is very common among younger patients. In fact, it can affect up to 20 to 60% of children and is more common among girls than boys

What are the symptoms of TMJ disorder?

If your child complains of any of the following symptoms, they may have TMD:

  • Jaw or facial pain
  • Stiffness in the jaw
  • A clicking noise when they open or close their mouth
  • Problems opening or closing the mouth
  • A locked jaw
  • Ringing in the ears
  • Frequent headaches
  • Earaches

What causes TMD in kids?

Bruxism, or teeth grinding and clenching, is one of the most common reasons for TMD. Although you may sometimes notice your child grinding their teeth, it is more likely happening at night.

Stress can also play a huge role in the development of TMD, especially since it increases the likelihood of bruxism. This is increasingly a huge concern, as incidents of childhood depression and anxiety increased from 5.4% in 2003 to 8.4% in 2011-2012

Jaw and dental misalignment can also lead to TMJ disorder. When the teeth do not meet properly, this places uneven pressure on the TMJs, leading to strain and joint damage. 

How is TMJ disorder treated?

The treatment for your child’s TMD will depend on the cause and severity of the condition. In many cases, particularly for children, rest and self-care is enough. This may include a short-term soft diet, ice and heat packs, and relaxation exercises. 

If bruxism is the cause of your child’s jaw pain, Dr. Matt or Dr. Craven may recommend an oral appliance to be worn at night. Since bruxism is often a side effect of anxiety, you may also want to consider counseling or therapy.

For overall jaw or bite misalignment, orthodontic treatment may be required. In very severe cases, jaw surgery may be necessary, but this is quite rare.

Contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids Today

If you believe your child may be suffering from TMJ disorder, schedule a consultation today.

Contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids 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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You notice with bittersweet excitement that your child’s first baby tooth has started to wiggle back and forth. But to your surprise, the thought of losing a tooth terrifies your child. Or maybe she has already lost one tooth, and subsequent loose teeth cause her to totally freak out. Either way, her fear puts you at a loss. The tooth is going to come out no matter what. So how do you make the whole process less traumatic for your child?

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids in Overland Park, KS, we know that kids have minds of their own. And that’s why we love working with them! We understand that children have reasons for their fears, and we work hard to put both our young patients and their parents at ease. We are also happy to help guide parents in making dental care and dentistry as easy as possible. 

If you are looking for a great pediatric dentist who truly understands children, contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids today.

#1: Validate Their Concerns

When a child expresses his fear, it’s easy to be dismissive. We rattle off phrases like, “It’s ok” or “There’s nothing to worry about.” But think about it from a kid’s perspective. A part of his body is suddenly gone. It undermines his sense of permanence and security. 

Instead of dismissing your child’s worries, validate them. “I know it can feel scary when you lose a tooth. It’s normal for teeth to come out. I’m here to give you a hug when you feel nervous.”

#2: Explain the Process

Along with validation, outline the science behind tooth loss. Explain that baby teeth serve as placeholders for adult teeth. The baby teeth have to come out to make room for the big, strong adult teeth that are just waiting to come in!

#3: Use Mindfulness Practices

When your child is feeling scared, ask her to notice where she feels fear in her body. Use deep breathing or guided imagery techniques to help calm the anxious feelings, both physically and mentally. You can find lots of guided imagery scripts, apps, and videos online

#4: Hype Up the Tooth Fairy

A visit from the tooth fairy is the best part of losing a tooth. When you notice that your child has a loose tooth, describe the tooth fairy in detail. Let your child participate in imagining the sprite’s world and what she might do with all those teeth. Really play up the fact that the tooth fairy will leave a special surprise under his pillow. 

#5: Face Your Own Fears

Kids are like sponges, and they absorb the anxieties of everyone around them, particularly their parents. Be honest in determining whether your child’s fear of losing a tooth might stem from some fear of your own. Do you suffer from dental phobia? A fear of blood? Anxiety around medical care? Working through your own anxieties will not only decrease the atmosphere of fear in your home. It will set a great example of self-care and being proactive about your mental health.

Contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids Today

Another way to combat fear is to partner with a great pediatric dentist who truly empathizes with kids. 

To schedule an appointment at Smiles Dentistry for Kids, contact us online. You can also call or text (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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Happy Valentine’s Day to all of our patients and families! We hope you enjoy this special day and know how truly valued you are by everyone here at Smiles Dentistry for Kids. Celebrating love is important for people of all ages, and we want our kids to enjoy the holiday. But following a few simple tips can minimize the effects of sugar and help your child enjoy a bright and healthy smile. 

Dr. Matt, Dr. Craven, and the whole team at our Overland Park, KS, office believe in the importance of patient education. By instilling good habits at a young age, we can help your child enjoy a healthy smile for life. It’s just one way that we hope to express our love for our patients. 

To learn more about good oral habits or to schedule an appointment for your child, contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids today.

Show Your Teeth Some Love

Of course, good dental hygiene is not just for Valentine’s Day. But if your child doesn’t already have good habits established, today is a great day to start. Share with your child the importance of self-love and self-care!

Just like adults, children should be brushing their teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Children under three should be using a drop of toothpaste about the size of a grain of rice, while older kids should be using a pea-sized amount. 

Flossing is also important. Make sure your child knows the correct flossing method. Being too aggressive or snapping the floss against the gums could damage the soft tissues. 

Choose Chocolate with Care

Of course, it wouldn’t be Valentine’s Day without some chocolate! But did you know that some types of chocolate are healthier than others? Dark chocolate is rich in flavanols, a type of antioxidant that can protect against heart disease and diabetes. It is also much lower in sugar than milk chocolate, meaning it is less likely to cause tooth decay.

Drink Lots of Water

We recognize that most kids will prefer milk chocolate or fruit-flavored candies to the relatively bitter taste of dark chocolate. And we firmly believe that occasional treats are totally appropriate and even necessary. In addition to eating sweets in moderation, encourage your child to stay hydrated. This can have benefits for nearly every aspect of your child’s health. It can also help to wash away food particles and sugar after enjoying those red velvet cupcakes and heart-shaped candies. 

Give a Shout-Out to Your Dentist 

This Valentine’s Day, why not ask Dr. Matt or Dr. Craven to “be mine” – my pediatric dentist that is! If your child is currently without a dental provider or it’s been a while since their last visit, take some time to reach out to our office and schedule an appointment. Along with routine brushing and flossing, regular dental visits are one of the best ways to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. And when your little one has good childhood dental health, they are much less likely to experience oral problems as an adult. 

Contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids This Valentine’s Day

To learn more about dental health or to schedule an appointment, contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids online. 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
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm

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

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

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

National Children’s Dental Health Month

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

Brush Twice Daily

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

Floss Once a Day

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

Eat for a Healthy Smile

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids

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

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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Judging by the name alone, baby teeth seem like they should be flawless. After all, they’re fresh, new, and haven’t been exposed to a lifetime of food, drinks, and opportunities for damage. So when you notice stains on your little one’s teeth, it can come as a shock. What causes stains on baby teeth anyway? Some children have stained teeth for the same reason that many adults do – diet and hygiene. But other factors can contribute to children’s dental staining. 

If you notice discoloration of your child’s baby teeth, it’s important to schedule an appointment with a pediatric dentist. He or she can determine which treatments are necessary to prevent further staining. At Smiles Dentistry for Kids, Dr. Matt and Dr. Craven are committed to protecting little smiles in Overland Park, KS, and the surrounding areas. 

Contact us today to schedule an appointment for your child. 

Oral Hygiene

Many parents don’t realize that they should begin brushing their children’s teeth as soon as they appear! Twice daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste and a soft brush is one of the best ways to prevent discoloration. You should also start flossing as soon as your child has two touching teeth. 

Dental visits are also essential as soon as that first tooth comes in. In fact, these visits are so vital that we are proud to offer free exams and cleanings to all children under age 2

Fluorosis

Fluoride is important for tooth development. But if your child is exposed to too much fluoride at a young age, it can cause white streaks to appear on the teeth. Fortunately, fluorosis is typically mild and does not affect tooth function. 

To avoid this condition, do not mix infant formula with fluoride-enhanced water. And be sure to check the fluoride levels where you live. Levels of less than 2 mg/l are unlikely to cause fluorosis. 

Certain Medications 

Some antibiotics, especially tetracycline, can cause brown, gray, or yellow dental stains. If your child is over age 8, these medications will have no adverse effects. However, if you took one of these medications while pregnant or nursing, your child’s teeth could be impacted. 

Weak Enamel

Enamel hypoplasia is a genetic condition that causes thin or weak tooth enamel. It can affect baby teeth only, or it could also affect the permanent teeth. With compromised enamel, your child is more susceptible to discoloration and decay. That is why it is especially important to be vigilant about hygiene and dental visits. Your dentist may recommend additional treatments to further protect your child’s teeth. 

Jaundice

If your child is born with jaundice, excess bilirubin can build up in the dental tissue, giving them a green hue. Fortunately, this effect is extremely rare and will only impact the baby teeth.

Tooth Injury 

An injured tooth could turn gray or even black. This is because a fall or blow to the tooth can damage blood vessels, causing blood to leak out inside the tooth. In some cases, children may require restorative care, such as a root canal. Fortunately, the permanent tooth will likely come in normally. 

Schedule an Appointment with a Pediatric Dentist 

If you notice staining on your child’s teeth, don’t wait to schedule an appointment. 

Contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids 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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According to the CDC, more than half of children ages six to eight have at least one cavity. Your child doesn’t have to be one of those. The good news is that cavities are completely preventable with proper oral hygiene. But how do you motivate your little one to take care of his pearly whites? Dr. Matt and Dr. Tara at Smiles Dentistry for Kids in Overland Park, KS, recommend meeting children where they’re at developmentally. 

For most children, technology is a great way to keep their attention while learning something new, like the importance of their mouth and how to brush and floss their teeth. Learn about some of the best interactive apps and games for teaching kids about oral health here! 

1. Toothsavers Brushing Game

This free, interactive game enlists children to help save fairy tale characters from the cavity-creating sorceress. The curse can only be broken by brushing teeth, and as your child cleans teeth, more characters and areas of the map are unlocked. There are three mini-games to choose from: 

  • Play with Toothsaver: Players brush the villagers’ teeth and earn up to three stars based on how well they do. While brushing, they receive tips and pointers on how to brush properly. 
  • Have Fun with Your Friend: Working with a partner, one child holds the device in front of their mouth while the other brushes his friend’s teeth. 
  • Brush with Toothsaver: Set this two-minute animated video up while your child is brushing her teeth and she will brush along with the animation and learn the proper brushing technique. 

2. Tiny Dentist

Prepare your child for their next dental exam and cleaning appointment by downloading this fun app! In Tiny Dentist, your child becomes the dentist. There is no limit to the number of patients they can help. Children can perform these tasks and treatments: 

  • Remove and fill cavities
  • Remove tooth calculus (tartar)
  • Use water and air spray
  • Extract teeth
  • Clean teeth
  • Teeth whitening
  • Put braces on 
  • Treat halitosis (bad breath)

3. Disney Magic Timer by Oral-B

With this free app, children can brush with their favorite Disney characters, learn proper brushing techniques with a timer and tips, win rewards, and you can track their progress with the Parent Portal. The Disney Magic Timer app helps kids brush up to two times longer than without it! 

  • Aquafresh Brush Time
  • Brusheez- Little Monsters Toothbrush Timer
  • Dentist Office Kids
  • Tooth Fairy Princess Adventure
  • Captain Aquafresh
  • Playbrush

Schedule Your Child’s Dental Exam Appointment 

Searching for a fun, trusted, and experienced dentist in Overland Park? Look no further than our team at Smiles Dentistry for Kids! Dr. Matt and Dr. Tara have created a positive and friendly atmosphere that kids love to visit. With patience and understanding, we make sure all of our patients feel comfortable while receiving the care they need. 

Exams and cleanings for children under two are FREE. To schedule your child’s first visit or bi-annual dental cleaning and exam appointment, call (913) 685-9990 today

Smiles Dentistry For Kids

14700 Metcalf Ave, Suite 110
Overland Park, KS 66223
(913) 685-9990
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
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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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