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

Back-to-School Lunch Ideas from Your Pediatric Dentist

With school back in session, you’re trying to get into the routine of a new year. One challenge is packing a healthy lunch that your kid will actually eat! Fortunately, foods that will give your child lasting energy for the school day are beneficial for nearly every aspect of their health, including their dental wellness. In this post, your pediatric dentist gives some lunch box suggestions for every palate.

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids in Overland Park, KS, Dr. Matt and his team offer complete dental services for children of all ages. We are committed to laying a foundation for lifelong oral health, not only through preventive care and treatment, but also through patient and parent education.

To learn more about the connection between diet and dental health, or to schedule an appointment with a pediatric dentist, contact our office today.

For the Kid Who Wants a Classic Lunch

Maybe your child is a bit of a picky eater, or maybe he wants a lunch that just won’t “stand out.” Either way, a classic peanut butter sandwich can be both nutritious and good for his teeth! The polyunsaturated fats in peanut butter are known to be anti-inflammatory and, according to one study, may actually help to prevent gum disease.

To maximize the benefits of peanut butter, choose varieties with no added sugar, and serve peanut butter on whole grain bread. Avoid jelly, which is essentially pure sugar. Instead serve peanut butter solo or add some slices of fruit.

For the Sophisticated Palate

If you’ve got an older child or one who just has mature tastes, pack a yummy spinach salad, loaded up with all the goodies. Like all leafy greens, spinach is high in calcium, which helps to strengthen bones and teeth. It also has plenty of folic acid and B vitamins to help combat gum disease.

On top of the greens, try some grilled or smoked salmon, which, like peanut butter, is high in polyunsaturated fats. Add some shiitake mushrooms, high in lentinan, which can help prevent cavities.

For the Snacker

If your child tends to graze throughout the day, packing a good lunch can be especially challenging. Fortunately, although you can’t change the school schedule, your pediatric dentist can still recommend a nutritious meal that will appeal to your little one. Try a kid-friendly charcuterie board. Cheese is not only high in teeth-strengthening calcium. It can also help to prevent demineralization and stimulate saliva flow. Pair the cheese with some whole-grain crackers. Finally, add fiber-rich apple slices and carrot sticks. With their crunchy texture, both can help to remove food particles from teeth.

And for Everyone…

Of course, all kids need a drink in their lunch and, no matter what their palate, this one’s a no-brainer. As any pediatric dentist will tell you, avoid juice boxes in favor of water. Although juice might seem a healthy choice, it is full of sugar, which will linger on teeth for the rest of the school day. In contrast, water helps to flush away bacteria and food particles to combat tooth decay and gum disease.

Contact Your Pediatric Dentist Today

For more dietary guidance or to schedule an appointment with a pediatric dentist, contact our office. Reach out online or give us a call 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

My Child Is Scared of the Dentist! What can I do?

For children, the world is big and brand new. They are still learning how to navigate their day-to-day lives. So when a new experience – like a dental visit – comes along, it can be frightening. The unfamiliar people, sights, sounds, and smells can be intimidating, even for children who have been to the dentist before. But as a parent, this can be exasperating and leave you wondering: How do you make your child less scared at the dentist?

As with all things related to kids, compassion and understanding are key. You can prepare your child in advance, at the same time showing them that you understand their concerns and that you don’t judge them in any way. Of course, it’s always important to choose the right dentist. At Smiles Dentistry for Kids, Dr. Matt is devoted specifically to pediatric dentistry. He and his Overland Park, KS, team know how to put little ones at ease and make their dental visits an enjoyable experience.

Talk about What to Expect

Among children, fear of the dentist is very common. In fact, 8% of surveyed 9-year-olds report dental anxiety. Fortunately, good preparation can significantly reduce anxiety.

Before visiting the dentist, discuss what will happen. If your child is old enough to remember their previous appointments, have them describe what happened with as much detail as possible. Encourage them to remember any fears they may have had and what they did to work through them.

Especially for younger children, who may not remember their last dental appointments, it may be helpful to play pretend. Use a doll while you or your child pretend to be a dentist. Then have your child play the role of the dentist while you pretend to be the patient!

Read Books about Visiting the Dentist

There are lots of kids’ books about dentists. Choose a variety of books that discuss what to expect at the dentist, as well as the importance of good dental health. Just be sure to vet the books before reading them to your child. Some books could actually instill more fear, depending on your child’s personality. You know your child best!

Let Them Accompany You to the Dentist

If they are old enough to sit through it, allow your child to come with you to your own dental appointment. That way, they can see what will happen and learn that everyone needs dental care.

Choose a Pediatric Dentist

Though there are many great dentists out there, pediatric dentists are specially trained in the treatment of children. Not only do they possess clinical knowledge of children’s dental needs; they also have the energy and flexibility necessary to treat children.

Dr. Matt has a great rapport with kids and truly loves working with them. He understands how to help frightened children. With their fun-loving and gentle demeanor, he and his team have their young patients laughing and smiling in no time!

Learn More about How You Can Make Your Child Less Scared at the Dentist

To learn more tips for dental anxiety or to schedule an appointment, contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids 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

Pediatric Dentistry Mystery: When do kids start losing their baby teeth?

There are few things cuter than that gap-toothed grin when your child has started to lose his first few teeth. But if this is your oldest or your only child, you likely have lots of questions about baby tooth loss. Among the most pressing: when can you expect it to start? Will your child’s kindergarten photo capture that endearing transition?

Dr. Matt knows that being a parent can be overwhelming. That’s why all of us at Smiles Dentistry for Kids are committed to helping you in your job as a mom or dad. When you visit our office in Overland Park, KS, you can always ask questions. And we promise to give you the best advice for your little one’s dental health.

For questions or to schedule an appointment, contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids today.

Why do we have two sets of teeth anyway?

Baby teeth are obviously smaller than permanent teeth. If adult teeth came in first, there wouldn’t be enough room since children’s jaws are still growing. Baby teeth allow children to eat and speak properly, and they ensure proper jaw development. At the same time, they save space for those larger adult teeth, which are still developing under the gums.

When do kids start losing their baby teeth?

Children typically start losing their teeth when they are 5 or 6. But some kids could start around age 4, while others may not get a visit from the tooth fairy until they are closer to 7.

Kids will continue to lose teeth until all their permanent teeth have come in, which is usually between ages 10 and 12.

Which teeth will come out first?

Baby teeth usually fall out in about the same order that they came in. So the two bottom front teeth, or lower central incisors, are usually the first to go. The two top front teeth are next. The lateral incisors come third, followed by the first molars, canines, and, finally, second molars.

How long will it take for a new tooth to come in?

This really varies from child to child. Sometimes, the new tooth will appear quickly. Other times, it could take up to six months for the permanent tooth to fill in the gap.

Some kids actually get their permanent teeth before they lose their baby teeth. This phenomenon is known as “shark teeth.” Although it might be disconcerting to see two teeth back-to-back, it’s usually not anything to worry about. However, if your child’s baby teeth haven’t started to loosen a few weeks after the second set of teeth have erupted, be sure to give our office a call. Dr. Matt may need to remove the baby teeth so the new permanent teeth don’t become crowded.

What happens if a child loses a baby tooth prematurely?

Premature baby tooth loss may affect up to 40% of children. When baby teeth come out too soon, it can cause orthodontic problems with the adult teeth. In these cases, Dr. Matt will likely suggest a spacer to help maintain proper dental alignment.

Learn More from Your Pediatric Dentist

To learn more about tooth loss or other pediatric dental concerns, contact our Overland Park, KS, office today. Reach us online or give us a call 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

Dentist in Overland Park: 5 Habits to Adopt Before the New School Year Begins

It may be the height of summer, but the new school year is coming up fast! The comparatively leisurely days of vacation will give way to the packed schedule of the academic year. That’s why the summer is the perfect time to adopt healthy dental habits. And finding a great dentist in Overland Park can help your family’s teeth stay healthy whatever the time of year!

Dr. Matt and the team at Smiles Dentistry for Kids are committed to helping your kids enjoy a lifetime of oral health. From education to cleanings, extractions to restorative care, we are ready to provide gentle, compassionate treatment. By focusing exclusively on pediatric dentistry, we know how to reach kids and convince them of the importance of good oral health.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Matt, contact our office today.

1. Daily Brushing and Flossing

When he’s rushing out the door to catch the bus, tooth brushing is likely the last thing on your child’s mind. During the summer, help your kids stick to the schedule by brushing their teeth before breakfast. Plus, brushing first thing can actually help to protect teeth from the acids in their first meal of the day.

2. Drinking More Water

In addition to keeping your body functioning at its best, water helps to flush away bacteria, acids, and food particles. Of course, milk is also important, especially for young children. But soda and juice should be an occasional treat, rather than a daily staple.

3. Eating a Nutritious Diet

Summer is the ideal season to amp up your family’s eating habits. Fresh fruits and vegetables are at their peak, farmer’s markets are packed with seasonal goodies, and there is time for your kids to take an active role in meal planning and prep.

Although it’s important to limit sugars, a healthy diet is not about denying your kids treats. Rather, incorporating a variety of foods will ensure that they are getting the proper nutrients to nourish their growing bodies and strengthen their tooth enamel.

4. Quitting Nail Biting, Pencil Chewing, Etc.

Using teeth to bite anything other than food can cause dental misalignment and chipped teeth. And it can increase the risk of infection and illness as bacteria pass from the hands to the mouth.

Studies suggest that more than 80% of nail biters also struggle with a psychiatric condition, such as ADHD or obsessive compulsive disorder. Dr. Matt can work with you and your child’s healthcare team to help stop this habit.

5. Wearing a Sports Mouthguard

If your child is planning to play any contact sports in the fall, it’s important to get fitted for a mouthguard now. According to the American Dental Association,athletes who don’t wear mouthguards are more than two times as likely to suffer an oral injury.

Be sure to visit a dentist for your child’s mouthguard. Prefabricated appliances are less effective and could even inhibit breathing and athletic performance.

Contact Your Pediatric Dentist in Overland Park

As you get ready to go back to school, don’t forget to schedule your child’s exams and cleanings. Contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids online or call (913) 685-9990 to schedule an appointment.

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

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

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

Ask a Children’s Dentist: Should I worry about cold and canker sores?

Sometimes it seems like children are constantly getting sick. But if your child suddenly develops a sore in or around his mouth, it can set your alarm bells ringing. It can also be very unpleasant, especially for small children. Fortunately, your children’s dentist is here to answer your questions and set your mind at ease.

As a father himself, Dr. Matt knows that being a parent comes with a lot of worry. That’s why he and the team at Smiles Dentistry for Kids in Overland Park, KS, prioritize parent education. Whether your child has recurring cold sores or a toothache, he is always happy to explain the causes and your treatment options.

Still have questions or looking to schedule an appointment? Contact us today!

What is a cold sore?

Cold sores, also called fever blisters, are quite common in children. They are the result of the herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). Children can be infected by the virus and then not manifest symptoms until another factor causes it to awaken. That’s why fever blisters often appear during times of stress, cold weather, or another illness.

Are cold sores contagious?

HSV-2 is highly contagious! If you or someone in your family has a cold sore, it’s important to avoid kissing, sharing utensils, and using the same towels until the blister has gone away.

Is there a treatment for cold sores?

Cold compresses and acetaminophen can help to minimize pain, and, in some cases, your children’s dentist may prescribe antiviral medications.

What is a canker sore?

Canker sores are small ulcers inside the mouth, particularly on the lips, cheeks, or under the tongue. They are usually small and white with a red, inflamed ring. They may appear on their own, or they could develop in clusters. Canker sores usually go away in one to two weeks. They are quite common and affect an estimated 10% of the population.

The cause of canker sores is unknown. In some cases, they can appear as a result of food allergies or a diet low in folic acid. Stress and hormonal changes can also bring about canker sores, but the exact correlation between these events is unknown.

Are canker sores contagious?

No. You cannot pass on canker sores. However, they tend to run in families, so if you suffer from recurring mouth ulcers, there is a greater likelihood that your child will, too.

Is there a treatment for canker sores?

There is no cure for canker sores, but, again, acetaminophen can keep inflammation under control. Dr. Matt may also prescribe a topical numbing medication if pain is particularly bad.

When should I be concerned?

In general, you shouldn’t!

However, if a baby under six months of age gets a cold sore, you should seek emergency medical treatment.

You should also contact your children’s dentist if cold or canker sores last more than two weeks. If your child has recurring canker sore outbreaks, your dentist or pediatrician may recommend testing to see if there is a dietary cause.

Contact Your Children’s Dentist

To learn more about children’s oral health or to schedule an appointment, contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids.

Reach us via our website or call us at (913) 685-9990.

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

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

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

Call (913) 685-9990 to make an appointment.

Pediatric Dentist in Overland Park Answers: Does xylitol prevent cavities?

One of the most common questions we encounter from parents is, “Does xylitol prevent cavities?” With the rising concern about dental health and the desire to protect our children’s smiles, it’s essential to explore the potential benefits of xylitol in cavity prevention.

In this blog, our pediatric dentist in Overland Park, Dr. Matt, delves into the world of xylitol and examines its effectiveness in warding off those pesky cavities.

What is xylitol?

Xylitol is a naturally occurring sugar alcohol found in various fruits and vegetables. It is widely used as a sugar substitute in sugar-free gum, candies, mints, and oral care products such as toothpaste and mouthwash. Unlike regular sugar, xylitol does not contribute to tooth decay. In fact, it has been hailed as a promising tool in the fight against cavities.

How does xylitol work?

The main reason xylitol is considered beneficial for dental health is its impact on bacteria. When we consume foods or drinks containing regular sugar, the bad bacteria in our mouths feed on these sugars and produce acids that attack tooth enamel, resulting in cavities.

Xylitol, on the other hand, cannot be metabolized by oral bacteria, preventing them from producing harmful acids. Additionally, xylitol has been found to inhibit the growth and adherence of bacteria, thereby reducing the risk of dental plaque formation.

What does the science say?

Numerous scientific studies have been conducted to investigate the effects of xylitol on cavity prevention, particularly in children. A systematic review published in the International Journal of Pediatric Dentistry in 2021 analyzed the findings of multiple studies and concluded that the use of xylitol, particularly in gum or lozenge form, can significantly reduce the occurrence of dental caries in children.

However, it’s important to note that xylitol is not a magical cure-all. It should be used in conjunction with a comprehensive oral hygiene routine, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits.

Pediatric Dentist in Overland Park Explains How to Include Xylitol as Part of a Preventive Regimen

To fully harness the potential benefits of xylitol, it is crucial to incorporate it into a comprehensive preventive dental care regimen.

Here are a few tips to consider:

1. Choose xylitol-containing products:

Look for sugar-free gum, candies, or mints sweetened with xylitol. Check the label to ensure the product contains a sufficient amount of xylitol for it to be effective.

2. Timing and frequency:

For maximum benefit, encourage your child to chew xylitol gum or consume xylitol products after meals or snacks. This helps stimulate saliva flow, which aids in neutralizing acids and remineralizing teeth.

3. Oral hygiene practices:

Emphasize the importance of regular brushing and flossing, as well as using fluoride toothpaste. Xylitol should complement these practices, not replace them.

4. Professional guidance:

Consult your pediatric dentist in Overland Park for personalized advice on incorporating xylitol into your child’s dental care routine. They can recommend specific products and provide guidance on dosage and frequency.

Learn More from Our Pediatric Dentist in Overland Park

While xylitol cannot single-handedly prevent cavities, it does offer a valuable tool in our arsenal against dental decay. Its ability to reduce harmful bacteria, inhibit plaque formation, and promote saliva production makes it a promising addition to a comprehensive oral hygiene routine.

Xylitol should always be used in combination with regular dental care practices. Remember, prevention is the key to maintaining a healthy smile for your child, so encourage good oral hygiene habits and schedule an appointment with our pediatric dentist in Overland Park today!

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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: Causes of Cavities

Dental cavities have a notorious reputation, but for most of us, they remain something of a mystery. Typically, they don’t cause any symptoms until they reach the advanced stages, so the diagnosis of a cavity can come as something of a shock. Your mind may be reeling. How long has it been there? Will your child lose his tooth? And, most of all, what caused it?

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids, no question is too obvious, and no concern is too small. Dr. Matt and the team at our Overland Park, KS, office believe that an open dialogue will lay a foundation for a lifetime of dental health. By explaining dental problems and their causes, we can help to prevent those problems from occurring again.

Contact our office with any questions or to schedule an appointment.

The Prevalence of Childhood Cavities

Sadly, childhood tooth decay is far too common. 23% of children between the ages of 2 and 5 have cavities. By ages 6 to 8, 52% of children have sustained decay in their baby teeth. Although these baby teeth will come out eventually, cavities are still a huge concern. Premature tooth loss can cause long term orthodontic problems. And early decay can increase the risk of cavities in the permanent teeth.

How a Cavity Forms

A cavity forms when oral bacteria react with sugar to create acid. The acid wears down tooth enamel, exposing the soft underlying layer of tissue known as dentin.

As bacteria accumulate, they will eventually create a sticky film called plaque and, later, a hard layer of tartar. Plaque and tartar keep bacteria in constant contact with tooth enamel, and they can only be removed with a professional dental cleaning.

New Research Uncovers a Destructive Link Between Two Oral Bacteria

Until recently, dental professionals were primarily concerned with the bacteria Streptococcus mutans, the main microbe thought to cause cavities. However, new research reveals that S. mutans works in conjunction with Selenomonus sputigena, the bacteria primarily responsible for gum disease. When these two bacteria are present simultaneously, they can greatly increase the severity of childhood tooth decay.

How to Prevent Cavities

Fortunately, you can fight both types of bacteria in the same ways. The most important steps include:

Good dental hygiene: Daily brushing and flossing (beginning as soon as teeth come in) help to remove bacteria and sugars.
A healthy diet: By limiting sugar and refined carbohydrates, you can minimize the food source for bacteria.
Proper feeding habits: Never put anything but breast milk, formula, or water into a bottle. Do not let your baby or toddler go to bed with a bottle, and wean your baby from nighttime bottle feedings after one year.
Hydration: Make sure your kids are drinking plenty of water with meals and throughout the day. This will help to flush out bits of food and stimulate saliva production, which helps to fight decay.
Dental visits: Schedule exams and cleanings every six months, beginning at the time your baby’s first teeth come in.

Contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids

To book an appointment for your child or to learn more about healthy dental habits, contact our office today.

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

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

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

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

Our Father’s Day Message: Dads, You Have a Big Impact on Your Kids’ Healthy Teeth!

When it comes to kids’ health, it seems like most of the information is directed toward moms. It is assumed that moms handle most of the health-related tasks, such as scheduling appointments, preparing food, and managing day-to-day wellness. But we recognize that dads do a lot of unacknowledged and unappreciated work. This Father’s Day, we salute the amazing dads who are doing so much to ensure that their kids enjoy good oral and physical health.

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids in Overland Park, KS, we provide compassionate pediatric dentistry, and we want to make sure that oral health is a positive experience for everyone in the family. As a dad himself, Dr. Matt understands the important role that fathers play in their kids’ health. He can explain how best to fill this role and answer any questions you may have.

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

Involved Dads Promote Better Health

Increasingly, health and sociology experts are becoming more aware of the role that dads play in their kids’ overall wellness. In part, this is due to widespread social trends. For instance, between 2003 and 2007, the number of stay-at-home dads increased by 60%. The majority of stay-at-home parents are still moms. Nonetheless, this number is not insignificant and indicates the importance of fatherhood and its role in child health and development.

Further, one study showed that 30% of moms reported that their child’s father had a positive impact on their children’s oral health. This impact came primarily because dads actively performed dental hygiene for their children, and they promoted a tooth-health diet.

The Power of Example

Any parent knows that kids imitate everything. Although this can be an intimidating thought, it’s actually great when it comes to dental care. When a child sees his dad brushing his teeth, the youngster is more likely to brush his own teeth. And if a little girl sees her daddy going to the dentist, she’s more likely to accept dental visits as a routine part of life.

One unique opportunity for dads involves dental phobia. Very often, dads feel compelled to display fearlessness in front of their children. And if a child expresses fear of the dentist, there’s a temptation to dismiss their anxieties or tell them there’s nothing to be afraid of. What if you let your child know that you feel nervous sometimes, too? Whether you suffer from dental anxiety yourself, or your anxiety comes at other times, when kids see that dads face up to their own fears, it can be an inspiring and lifelong example of courage.

The Role of Diet and Nutrition

Dads are increasingly spending more time in the kitchen, and their food choices can have a tremendous impact on their kids’ dental health. Of course, there are certain notorious causes of cavities (such as candy), but any carbohydrate can lead to tooth decay, especially refined or processed carbs. A balanced diet with plenty of whole grains, lean proteins, dairy, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fat can dramatically reduce the risk of cavities. And, of course, some treats are appropriate in moderation.

Contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids

Happy Father’s Day! Are you ready to schedule an appointment for your child? Contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids 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

3 Big Myths about Dental Extraction

While it’s never pleasant to be told your child must lose a tooth that’s not supposed to come out, the reality is that dental extraction is much less scary than most people think. Indeed, myths abound surrounding tooth extraction. But when you know the truth about this procedure, it can make the prospect much less daunting both for you and for your child.

Dr. Matt offers conservative and compassionate pediatric dentistry in Overland Park, KS. He only recommends dental extraction when it is absolutely necessary, using our advanced technology to evaluate your child’s tooth and overall dental health. When it is required, he and the team at Smiles Dentistry for Kids do everything in their power to make the procedure easy, quick, and comfortable.

Have you been told your child needs a dental extraction? Wondering about your teen’s wisdom teeth? Contact us to learn more!

Myth #1: Wisdom Teeth Always Need to Come Out.

In the past, wisdom tooth extraction was almost a rite of passage, along with getting your driver’s license and graduating from high school. Today, dentists are much more discerning as they evaluate each individual patient.

Dr. Matt only recommends wisdom tooth extraction if the third molars are causing problems or are likely to do so in the future. If there is not enough room for the teeth to come in, they can cause significant discomfort, and they can upset overall tooth alignment. Wisdom teeth can also become impacted, meaning they are trapped beneath the gums or jawbone.

Myth #2: When Kids Have an Extraction, They Don’t Need a Replacement.

Since your child’s baby teeth will eventually come out anyway, it seems odd to replace an extracted tooth. But those baby teeth serve an important function as placeholders. If the teeth come out too early, it can cause the other teeth to shift, leading to a lifetime of orthodontic problems.

Myth #3: Dental Extraction Will Affect Your Child’s Appearance.

Extraction does not have to affect your child’s appearance at all! Just as there are for adults, a number of highly realistic dental restorations can replace missing teeth. A dental bridge is the most common option, especially for pediatric patients. Bridges are made from porcelain and similar substances, which match both the color and sparkle of dental enamel.

In recent years, dental implants have become a popular method of tooth replacement. But implants are not typically appropriate for pediatric patients since bone growth and development can affect the stability of implants. Typically, boys have a final growth spurt between the ages of 11 and 17, while girls stop growing between the ages of 9 and 15. An oral surgeon can assess whether growth has stopped and whether implants may be suitable.

Of course, if your child has lost a baby tooth, you may not want the hassle and expense of a permanent dental restoration. In these cases, Dr. Matt will usually recommend a spacer. As the name implies, a spacer simply maintains the space left by the extracted tooth. Although it will not blend in like a bridge, it will keep the other teeth from shifting.

Learn More about Tooth Extraction from Your Pediatric Dentist

For more information about dental extraction and other kids’ procedures, contact our office today.

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

"*" indicates required fields

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