Tag: kidsdentist

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

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

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

Scared to go to the dentist? Here are 5 soothing solutions!

Is your little one scared to go to the dentist? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! Many children (and even adults!) feel nervous about dental visits. But don’t let fear get in the way of your kiddo’s oral health—there are plenty of ways to make those trips to the dentist a breeze. Our children’s dentist in Overland Park, KS, is here to help!

Experts believe that around 30% of children and adolescents experience dental fear and anxiety. While these feelings of fear can be debilitating, they don’t have to be. At Smiles Dentistry for Kids, you and your little one can explore anxiety-reducing options, like sedation dentistry. Call our dentist in Overland Park, KS, at (913) 685-9990 for more information!

Today, Dr. Matt reveals five soothing solutions to help your child conquer their fear and even look forward to their next appointment.

1. Meet the Dentist Before the Big Day

One of the best ways to help a child who is scared to go to the dentist is to arrange a friendly meet-and-greet with the dentist before the actual appointment. This casual visit can help your child become familiar with the dentist and the office environment without the pressure of an exam.

2. Play Pretend Dentist at Home

Children love to play pretend, so why not use this to your advantage? Set up a mini dental clinic at home with your child’s favorite stuffed animals or dolls as patients. Let your child take on the role of the dentist, and you can be the assistant.

This fun activity can demystify the process and make your child feel more in control when it’s time for their real appointment.

3. Talk About Sedation Dentistry

For some children who are especially scared to go to the dentist, sedation dentistry can be a wonderful solution. There are different types of sedation available, depending on your child’s needs and the procedure:

Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)

This is a mild form of sedation that helps relax your child while keeping them awake. Dentists administer the gas through a small facemask that fits over the nose. This odorless, colorless gas wears off very quickly, allowing your child to resume their normal activities after dental visits.

Oral Sedation

This involves giving your child a medication to swallow before the appointment. The medication makes patients feel drowsy and calm, with the effects wearing off over several hours.

IV Sedation

Dentists reserve intravenous (IV) sedation for more extensive procedures or those with extreme dental anxiety. IV sedation will make your child deeply relaxed and sleepy.

4. Read Books and Watch Shows About the Dentist

There are plenty of children’s books and TV shows that feature friendly dentists and brave kids who visit them. Reading stories or watching episodes about dental visits can help your child understand what to expect and see that it’s not so scary after all.

5. Reward and Praise Bravery

Positive reinforcement goes a long way in helping a child who is scared to go to the dentist. Create a reward system where your child earns a small prize for being brave before, during, and after their visit.

Praise their courage and remind them how proud you are of them. Celebrating their bravery can turn a daunting experience into a confidence-boosting achievement.

Scared to go to the dentist? We can help!

If your child is scared to go to the dentist, it’s perfectly normal, and with a little creativity and preparation, you can help them overcome their fears. Want to learn more about how to make dental visits fun and stress-free? Contact Dr. Matt Hillman at Smiles Dentistry for Kids online, or call our Overland Park, KS, dental office at (913) 685-9990 for more advice.

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

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

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

How to Celebrate National Peanut Butter Cookie Day with a Healthy Smile

Did you know that National Peanut Butter Cookie Day is on June 12th this year? This delightful occasion brings joy to many kids and adults alike. Who can resist the rich, creamy goodness of peanut butter combined with the sweet crunch of a cookie? Certainly not the team at Smiles Dentistry for Kids!

Want to give your child a healthier smile in time for National Peanut Butter Cookie Day? Contact our children’s dentist, Dr. Matt Hillman, in Overland Park, KS, today! Just call Smiles Dentistry for Kids at (913) 685-9990 for more information and booking.

While celebrating this tasty day, it’s important for parents to consider their children’s dental health. Don’t worry, though! We have some tips and ideas on how to enjoy National Peanut Butter Cookie Day without compromising those pearly whites.

Peanut Butter: A Nutritious Treat for Teeth

Peanuts and peanut butter are not only delicious but also offer some surprising benefits for dental health. Here are a few reasons why peanuts can be good for your child’s teeth:

Protein and Healthy Fats

Peanut butter contains lots of protein and healthy fats. These nutrients are essential for the growth and development of your child’s teeth and gums.

Vitamins and Minerals

Peanuts contain smile-friendly nutrients like calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D. These vitamins and minerals are key players in tooth and gum development, helping your child build a strong, healthy set of teeth.

Low in Sugar

Natural peanut butter contains minimal added sugars, making it a healthier alternative compared to many other sweet spreads (looking at you, Nutella!).

Tips for a Tooth-Friendly Celebration

Here are some creative and fun ways to celebrate National Peanut Butter Cookie Day while keeping your child’s dental health in mind:

Choose Natural Peanut Butter

Opt for natural peanut butter that doesn’t have added sugars or unhealthy fats. This not only makes the cookies healthier but also reduces the risk of cavities.

Incorporate Whole Grains

Use whole wheat flour instead of white flour in your cookie recipes. Whole grains are better for overall health and provide more tooth-friendly nutrients.

Add Some Crunch with Nuts

Consider adding chopped nuts to your cookies. Not only do nuts add an extra crunch but they also help scrape plaque from teeth while delivering a boost of nutrients.

Extra Tips for Healthy Teeth

Even with healthier cookie options, it’s essential to maintain good dental hygiene practices. Here are some tips to ensure your child’s teeth stay healthy and strong:

Brush Twice a Day

Encourage your child to brush their teeth at least once after rolling out of bed and once before drifting off to sleep at night. Each occasion should last at least two minutes, with a focus on brushing all sides of every tooth. Use fluoride toothpaste to help protect against cavities.

Floss Daily

Help your child floss daily to remove food and plaque buildup from between their teeth. Single-use floss picks may be the easiest way for your child to learn this daily habit.

Drink Water

Encourage your child to drink plain water, especially after eating sweets, to help rinse away sugar and food particles. Limit juices and sodas.

Regular Dental Checkups

Make sure your child visits our Overland Park dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.

Visit Our Children’s Dentist in Overland Park, KS

By making some simple adjustments and encouraging good oral hygiene, you can celebrate National Peanut Butter Cookie Day with your child without worrying about their dental health. Want more tips and tricks? Contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids online, or call Dr. Matt Hillman at (913) 685-9990 for more!

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

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

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

Pediatric Dentist in Overland Park, KS, Provides Tips for Dealing with Dental Anxiety

Our pediatric dentist in Overland Park, KS, understands that dental visits can be a bit daunting for little ones. The unfamiliar faces, strange instruments, and peculiar sounds of a dental office can turn a routine check-up into a major source of anxiety for our kiddos.

Luckily, you and your child don’t have to deal with dental anxiety alone. Dr. Matt Hillman and the team at Smiles Dentistry for Kids are here to help you and your little one get comfortable, stress-free care. Call our pediatric dentist in Overland Park, KS, at (913) 685-9990 to see how we can ease anxiety before upcoming dental appointments.

With the right strategies, you can help your child overcome their dental fears and make dentist’s visits as smooth as silk. So, today, our pediatric dentist in Overland Park, KS, dives into some fun and friendly tips to tackle dental anxiety.

1. Start Early and Make It Fun

Early visits to the dentist (starting as soon as your baby’s first tooth emerges) help normalize dental appointments. Turn these trips into fun adventures by framing them as a quest to keep their teeth shiny and strong. Maybe there’s a tooth fairy nearby, taking notes on their bravery!

2. Play Pretend Dentist at Home

Set up a mini “dental office” at home. You can take turns being the dentist and the patient. Use a toothbrush to count each other’s teeth, and perhaps even have a stuffed animal join in the fun. This playful practice helps demystify what happens at the dentist’s office.

3. Choose a Kid-Friendly Dentist

Finding a dentist who specializes in pediatric care can make a world of difference. Kid-friendly dentists often have a way with children, using gentle language and sometimes even offering fun distractions, like cartoons or toys.

Want to see why kids love visiting our pediatric dentist in Overland Park, KS? Click here to read reviews about Dr. Matt Hillman!

4. Be a Role Model

If you show excitement and confidence about dental visits, your little one is likely to mirror your attitude. Share your own positive experiences, and let them know that everyone goes to the dentist to keep their teeth healthy and strong.

5. Read Books and Watch Shows About Dental Visits

Books and TV shows featuring characters going to the dentist can help children understand what to expect at a dental office. Some great options include “Peppa Pig: Dentist Trip” and “The Berenstain Bears Visit the Dentist.”

6. Explain the Importance of Dental Health

Use simple and clear language to explain why dental visits are essential. Say things like, “The dentist helps keep your smile beautiful and your teeth strong so you can enjoy your favorite foods.”

7. Offer Positive Reinforcement

Celebrate your child’s bravery with praise and perhaps a small reward, like a trip to the park or an extra bedtime story. Positive reinforcement can build their confidence and make them more willing to return for future visits with our pediatric dentist in Overland Park, KS.

8. Practice Relaxation Techniques

Teach your child simple relaxation strategies, like deep breathing or imagining a favorite place. These tricks can help them calm down if they start to feel anxious.

Meet Our Pediatric Dentist in Overland Park, KS

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids, we’re always happy to help kiddos conquer their fears. So, if your little one is afraid of the dentist, let us know. We’ll do everything we can to make sure your child receives anxiety-free, gentle care.

Request appointments with our five-star pediatric dentist in Overland Park, KS, here or call our front desk at (913) 685-9990 for scheduling.

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

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

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

Pediatric Dentistry Mystery: Is bottle feeding bad for teeth?

The health benefits of breastfeeding are widely known, from a stronger infant immune system to a reduced risk of breast cancer for mom. But for women who can’t nurse or who choose to pump, the “mom guilt” is all too real! Suddenly it seems like everything is doomed to go wrong for your baby, including his or her dental development.

Here at Smiles Dentistry for Kids in Overland Park, KS, we understand that the decision to breastfeed your child is a highly personal one. While Drs. Matt and Craven can’t deny the health benefits of nursing, they also know that there are a variety of factors that will influence your decision. And ultimately we know that it is your decision. Baby bottles, used improperly, can increase the risk of dental problems. But with proper precautions, there is no reason your child shouldn’t enjoy a lifelong health smile.

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

Baby Bottle Tooth Decay Is a Legitimate Concern

Baby bottle tooth decay (also known as early childhood caries) is an unfortunately common condition. Cavities typically affect the upper front teeth. However, the name is a bit of a misnomer because breastfed babies can also suffer from baby bottle tooth decay (albeit, it is less likely). Moreover, baby tooth decay doesn’t happen because of a bottle per se. Rather, it occurs when baby or toddler teeth have prolonged exposure to sugary liquids (including formula and breast milk).

Early childhood tooth cavities can also develop when a mother passes on cavity-causing bacteria or when a child does not have enough fluoride intake. Interestingly, children with a traumatic birth or a high-risk pregnancy are more likely to suffer from early dental decay.

Preventing Baby Bottle Tooth Decay

You can easily reduce the risk baby bottle tooth decay with a few simple steps:

Never put your baby to bed with a bottle (even one containing breast milk).
Make sure your child swallows breast milk before falling asleep.
Never put juice or sugary beverages in a bottle.
Don’t use the bottle as a pacifier.
Before your child starts teething, wipe down his or her gums at least once a day with a soft cloth.
After the first tooth comes in, start brushing, using a soft brush and a toothpaste that contains fluoride.
Also after the first tooth comes in, or by the first birthday, schedule your child’s first visit with a pediatric dentist.
Do not share eating utensils with your child.
Clean pacifiers with soap and hot water, never your mouth.

Bottles, Dental Alignment, and Speech Delays

Both bottles and pacifiers can cause dental alignment issues, including crooked teeth, jaw misalignment, and a narrowed palate. And, in turn, this can affect the way that your child learns to speak.

However, be aware that this only applies to older children. As long as you wean your baby from bottles and pacifiers around 12 months, you are unlikely to see any permanent effects.

Contact Us for Non-Judgmental, Family-Centered Care

We know parenting can be incredibly stressful, and we are here to make the task easier for you. To visit a compassionate, supportive pediatric dentist, contact our Overland Park office today.

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!

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

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

5 Healthy Oral Habits That Your Kids Should Adopt Today

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.

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.

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

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

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

National Astronaut Day: How do astronauts care for their teeth in space?

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.

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

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

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

Pediatric Dentist in Overland Park, KS, Explains the Health Risks of Oral Piercings

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!

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

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

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

How to Talk to Your Kids about Cavities

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.

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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