Tag: Overland Park pediatric dentist

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

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

dental fear, Pediatric dentist

How to Help Your Child Overcome Dental Anxiety

What to Do If Your Child Has a Toothache

A child with a toothache can quickly turn a normal day into a stressful one for any parent. Whether the pain is sudden or has been building for a few days, it’s important to know how to respond, when to call the dentist, and what might be causing the discomfort. At Smiles Dentistry 4 Kids in Overland Park, KS, we specialize in caring for children’s dental needs with compassion and expertise—especially when emergencies or toothaches arise.

If you’re wondering what to do when your child says their tooth hurts, this guide will walk you through step-by-step.

Step 1: Stay Calm and Ask Questions

First and foremost, remain calm. Children often mirror the emotions of the adults around them, so your calm demeanor can help ease their fear.

Ask your child questions such as:

When did the pain start?
Is it sharp, throbbing, or dull?
Does it hurt more when eating or drinking?

If they’re old enough, they may be able to point out the specific tooth or area that hurts. If the child is very young or non-verbal, look for signs like drooling, face-touching, refusal to eat, or difficulty sleeping.

Step 2: Examine the Mouth and Rinse

Gently examine your child’s mouth. Look for:

Swelling or redness of the gums
Visible cavities or holes in the tooth
Chipped, cracked, or broken teeth
Food particles stuck between teeth

Have your child rinse their mouth with warm water and, if old enough, try a saltwater rinse to reduce inflammation. Carefully floss around the painful tooth to ensure there’s nothing lodged between it.

Step 3: Ease the Discomfort

You can use a cold compress on the cheek to reduce swelling and numb the area. For short-term pain relief, you may offer over-the-counter children’s pain medication—like ibuprofen or acetaminophen—based on their weight and age. Never apply aspirin directly to a tooth or gums, as it can cause chemical burns.

For families searching for a same day kids dentist in Overland Park, Smiles Dentistry 4 Kids offers prompt care for urgent dental issues. We strive to see patients quickly when a toothache can’t wait.

Step 4: Call the Dentist

Even if the pain improves temporarily, a toothache is often a symptom of an underlying issue that needs professional attention. It could be caused by:

Tooth decay
A dental abscess or infection
Gum inflammation
A loose or erupting tooth
Injury or trauma

Prompt diagnosis and treatment can prevent the issue from becoming worse. Our team is here to help families who need a pediatric dentist in Overland Park with emergency care options, preventive services, and restorative treatments when needed.

Common Causes of Toothaches in Children

Understanding what might be causing your child’s discomfort helps you better respond:

Cavities: The leading cause of toothaches in kids. Tooth decay can develop even with regular brushing if diet and hygiene aren’t consistent.
Emerging Teeth: New teeth coming in, especially molars, can cause temporary discomfort.
Cracked or Broken Teeth: Often from falls, accidents, or biting hard foods.
Infection or Abscess: Requires immediate care to prevent it from spreading.
Food Impaction: Even healthy snacks like apples or popcorn can become lodged between teeth.

At Smiles Dentistry 4 Kids, we provide teeth cleaning for kids in Overland Park as part of our preventive care program to help avoid issues that lead to toothaches.

When It’s an Emergency

Call our office immediately if your child has:

Swelling in the face or jaw
Persistent or severe pain
A knocked-out or cracked tooth
Fever or signs of infection

As a trusted provider of restorative dental care for kids in Overland Park, we’re equipped to handle everything from urgent care to long-term smile solutions.

How to Prevent Future Toothaches

Prevention is key. Help your child:

Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
Floss daily
Limit sugary snacks and drinks
Attend dental checkups every six months
Wear a mouthguard during sports

We also emphasize the benefits of fluoride for kids in Overland Park, which helps strengthen enamel and fight cavities.

Caring for Overland Park Smiles

At Smiles Dentistry 4 Kids, we understand that every child’s smile is unique—and so is every toothache. Whether your child needs quick relief, ongoing dental care, or reassurance in the dental chair, we’re here to provide it all in a fun, welcoming environment.

If your child is experiencing tooth pain, give us a call. We’re proud to be recognized as a provider of best pediatric dentistry in Overland Park and are here to help your child feel better fast.

"*" 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

dental fear, Pediatric dentist

How to Help Your Child Overcome Dental Anxiety

Let’s be honest—going to the dentist can be a little intimidating for kids. The new sounds, unfamiliar environment, and fear of the unknown can all contribute to dental anxiety. But with the right approach and a team that understands kids, dental visits can become positive, even enjoyable, experiences.

At Smiles Dentistry 4 Kids in Overland Park, our goal is to help every child feel safe, supported, and confident from the moment they walk through our doors. Whether it’s their first checkup or they need restorative care, we’re here to make the process smooth and stress-free.

Why Kids Experience Dental Anxiety

Dental anxiety in children may stem from:

Fear of pain or discomfort
Negative stories from siblings or friends
Sensory sensitivities (e.g., lights, sounds, tastes)
Previous medical or dental trauma
Fear of separation from parents

If your child feels anxious before appointments or avoids brushing altogether, these are important signs to address.

How to Ease Dental Fear in Kids

1. Choose a Pediatric Dental Specialist

Children thrive when they receive care from professionals who specialize in their needs. A pediatric dentist in Overland Park knows how to communicate with kids, make dental concepts fun, and adapt the environment to reduce stress.

At our office, everything is designed with kids in mind—from the décor and tools to our compassionate, kid-savvy team.

2. Keep Conversations Positive at Home

Avoid using scary words like “shot” or “drill.” Instead, describe the dentist as a “smile helper” and explain that they’re going to count teeth, make them sparkle, and keep them strong.

Encouraging stories, books, and pretend dental play can also help make the idea of a dental visit more familiar and fun.

3. Bring Comfort Items to the Appointment

A beloved stuffed animal, blanket, or toy can offer comfort and familiarity in a new setting. We also encourage parents to remain nearby during early visits, especially for toddlers and preschoolers.

4. Start Dental Visits Early

Introducing your child to dental care by their first birthday helps normalize the experience from a young age. If you’re unsure when to begin, a same day kids dentist in Overland Park like our team can help you schedule your first visit and guide you through the process.

5. Offer Praise and Rewards

Positive reinforcement goes a long way. After each visit, celebrate your child’s bravery with praise, a fun sticker, or a special reward. Even small accomplishments—like sitting in the chair—are worth celebrating.

6. Explore Gentle Sedation If Needed

For children with significant anxiety, certain treatments may be easier with the help of mild sedation. Our practice offers safe, age-appropriate options designed to keep kids relaxed and comfortable during procedures.

If your child needs more extensive work or has a history of dental fear, talk to us about your options. We want to ensure the best possible experience for them.

Why It Matters: Dental Confidence for Life

When children feel safe at the dentist, they’re more likely to develop good habits, maintain regular checkups, and seek care proactively into adulthood. That’s why overcoming dental fear is more than just getting through an appointment—it’s setting the foundation for a healthy future.

Whether your family is looking for the best pediatric dentistry in Overland Park, help with a lip tie, or just a team that truly understands children, Smiles Dentistry 4 Kids is here to help.

Let’s Make Dental Visits Something to Smile About

No matter where your child is in their dental journey—first visit, first cavity, or first cleaning—we’re here to make it a positive experience. If you’ve been searching for Overland Park smiles you can trust, look no further.

Contact Smiles Dentistry 4 Kids today to schedule your child’s appointment and discover a dental home where comfort, compassion, and quality come together.

"*" 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

Cavity Prevention Tips for Kids

For many parents, keeping cavities away is a top priority—and for good reason. Cavities can lead to discomfort, missed school days, and even more serious dental issues if left untreated. But here’s the good news: cavities are almost entirely preventable with the right combination of home care and professional support.

At Smiles Dentistry 4 Kids, we help families across Overland Park create healthy habits for long-lasting oral health. Whether your child is due for a checkup or you’re looking for tips on fluoride for kids in Overland Park, we’re here to support your child’s smile every step of the way.

Why Are Kids More Susceptible to Cavities?

Children are particularly prone to cavities due to a few common reasons:

Developing tooth enamel that’s more vulnerable to acid
Frequent snacking and high-sugar diets
Learning proper brushing and flossing techniques
Lack of routine professional dental visits

Cavities can happen quickly—especially in baby teeth—so it’s important to be proactive from the start.

How to Prevent Cavities in Children

1. Start Early with Oral Hygiene

Oral care should begin as soon as the first tooth appears. Use a small, soft-bristled toothbrush with a smear of fluoride toothpaste to gently clean teeth twice a day. As more teeth come in, continue brushing and add flossing once teeth begin to touch.

Parents looking for a pediatric dentist in Overland Park can count on our team to walk them through age-appropriate techniques during early visits.

2. Schedule Regular Dental Checkups

Routine visits for teeth cleaning for kids in Overland Park are essential for preventing cavities. Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar that can’t be brushed away at home. These visits also help your child build comfort and familiarity with the dental office.

We recommend checkups every six months to monitor dental development and catch any issues early.

3. Make Fluoride Part of the Routine

Fluoride is one of the best defenses against tooth decay. It strengthens enamel and helps reverse early signs of damage. Many Overland Park families benefit from fluoride treatments during dental visits, especially if their home water supply is not fluoridated.

If you’re unsure whether your child is getting enough fluoride in Overland Park, our team can assess and recommend appropriate care based on age and risk factors.

4. Consider Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are a fast, painless way to protect your child’s back molars, where cavities are most likely to form. A thin layer of resin is painted onto the chewing surface to block food and bacteria from settling into grooves.

This preventive step is often recommended around age 6 when the first molars come in—and again for second molars around age 12.

5. Make Nutrition Part of the Cavity-Free Plan

Limiting sugar is key to preventing tooth decay. Sticky candies, juice, and sugary snacks feed the bacteria that cause cavities. Encourage a diet full of:

Fresh fruits and veggies
Whole grains
Dairy for strong enamel
Plenty of water

Avoid frequent grazing or sipping on sweet drinks throughout the day, as this prolongs acid exposure.

6. Keep It Fun and Consistent at Hom

Good habits are more likely to stick when oral care feels like a positive part of the day. Try:

Letting your child pick their own toothbrush and toothpaste flavor
Playing a favorite song or using a 2-minute timer
Reading books about brushing
Making brushing a family activity

These simple steps can help eliminate resistance and foster independence.

7. Know When to See a Dentist for Specific Needs

In addition to regular checkups, there are times when your child may need specialized care, such as treatment for a lip tie in Overland Park or other oral issues that impact eating, speech, or comfort. At Smiles Dentistry 4 Kids, we’re trained to recognize and address these concerns early, helping kids thrive in all areas of development.

When Restorative Dentistry Is Needed

Even with the best prevention, cavities may still happen—and that’s okay. When they do, early intervention is key. As a restorative dentist for kids in Overland Park, we offer gentle, effective treatment options such as fillings and crowns designed specifically for growing smiles.

Our goal is always to restore health while keeping children relaxed and reassured.

Healthy Habits Today, Confident Smiles Tomorrow

At Smiles Dentistry 4 Kids, we believe every child deserves a happy, healthy smile—and we’re here to help you achieve it. From your child’s first visit to ongoing prevention and care, we provide compassionate, kid-friendly dental services for families throughout the area.

Looking for guidance on same day kids dentist visits in Overland Park, fluoride safety, or how to start a healthy dental routine? Reach out to our team and let’s build lifelong habits together.

"*" 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

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.

"*" 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

Pediatric Dentistry Mystery: The Tooth Fairy

It truly is a pediatric dentistry mystery, where the Tooth Fairy originated. Throughout history and across the globe, parents have built excitement and anticipation around their children’s loss of primary teeth. Indeed, it is a right of passage when a young child begins to see evidence of their growth. Today, Dr. Matt will share some of the folklore around the Tooth Fairy, her mystery, magic, and wonder. Your children will love this!

The American Tooth Fairy

In 1908, Lillian Brown authored an article in the Chicago Tribune encouraging parents to introduce the Tooth Fairy. As the story went, the Tooth Fairy’s token gift prompted children to allow baby teeth to be pulled without tears. Brown suggested a $.05 exchange for each tooth, left under the child’s pillow to help promote the myth.

The average gift left by the Tooth Fairy today is $3.70 in the US, according to a poll by Visa. Other research by Delta Dental shows that in 1998, average payment of $1.80 has risen to $6.23 in 2023!

Tooth Fairy of the Norse and Vikings

In the 10th Century, Norse parents paid tand-fe, or “tooth fee,” to their children in exchange for lost teeth. Some families would burn or bury a child’s first lost tooth, so he would be spared from hardships later in life. Tradition held that a milk tooth not burned or buried would become cause for an eternal search in the afterlife.

Another belief was that if a witch found a child’s tooth, she would hold power over that child for his lifetime.

Also, Viking warriors wore multiple children’s teeth on jewelry to bring good luck and protection.

The Tooth Mouse of France and Spain

In the 18th Century, French parents told their children of Le Bonne Petite Souris (the Little Mouse). This little critter would leave a coin in exchange for a lost baby tooth. Children placed a lost tooth in their shoes, and the following day voila! Payment appeared in its place.

El Ratoncito Perez, or Perez the Little Mouse, is a similar figure in Spain. Hispanic cultures teach children that El Ratoncito Perez will come at night. He will trade a coin for a tooth left near the child’s bedside.

Other Tooth Children’s Tooth Traditions

Folklore across the globe depicts the “tooth fairy” as a beaver, cat, dog, and squirrel. Some rituals involve throwing lost children’s teeth into the fire, sun, or even between the legs! Parents and children have dropped teeth in mouse holes, placed them in trees, and thrown them over a roof. Stranger still, baby teeth have been purposefully swallowed by the child who lost it, his mother, or a family pet. All of these strange rituals were thought to bring luck, protection, or favor.

We Love the Tooth Fairy!

At Smiles Dentistry 4 Kids, Dr. Matt and our team want your children to enjoy taking great care of their teeth. We help parents and children learn how to brush, floss, and protect baby and permanent teeth from dental disease. Every parent should trust their dentist. We respect the trust our patients and their families place in us. Give us a call in Overland Park at (913) 685-9990 today to schedule your child’s dental appointment.

"*" 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

Essential Tips for New Parents from a Pediatric Dentist

Being a new parent is exciting! But, it can often be challenging. Amidst the joys and responsibilities of parenthood, it’s essential not to overlook your baby’s oral health. Developing good dental habits early on can set the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. That’s why our pediatric dentist in Overland Park, KS, is here to help (read more about Dr. Matt here!).

Is it time to take your little one to visit the dentist? Schedule an appointment with our top-rated pediatric dentist at Smiles Dentistry for Kids by calling (913) 685-9990 now!

Pediatric dentists understand the importance of oral care in infancy and early childhood. In this blog post, we share valuable tips to help new parents ensure that their little ones maintain optimal oral health.

Start Oral Care Early

Many parents hear that oral care should start once their child’s first tooth emerges, but it should actually start before then. After feeding, gently wipe your baby’s gums with a clean, damp cloth or a soft infant toothbrush. This helps remove bacteria and establish a routine that promotes good oral hygiene.

Introduce Fluoride

Fluoride is crucial for developing strong teeth. The mineral binds with calcium and phosphates to form fluorapatite, which helps rebuild weakened tooth enamel. Once your baby’s first tooth appears, consult with your pediatric dentist about starting fluoride supplementation.

Monitor Feeding Practices

Avoid putting your baby to bed with a bottle. High-sugar liquids (like breastmilk, formula, or juice) can lead to infant tooth decay, known as “baby bottle tooth decay.”

Establish a Dental Home

Choosing a pediatric dentist for your child is vital. Start early by scheduling the first dental visit around your baby’s first birthday or when the first tooth begins to appear. A pediatric dentist specializes in infant and child dental care, ensuring a positive experience and offering valuable guidance for parents.

Practice Healthy Feeding Habits

As your baby transitions to solid foods, make nutritious choices that promote dental health, such as:

Fresh fruits and vegetables
Healthy fats, like avocados and dairy products
Whole grains
Lean proteins

Be sure to introduce a variety of textures and flavors to encourage chewing and jaw development.

Encourage Good Oral Hygiene Habits

As your child grows, encourage independent brushing. Supervise their brushing technique until they can do it effectively on their own using small, circular motions across all tooth surfaces for at least two minutes.

Limit Pacifier Use

Pacifiers can provide comfort, but prolonged use may impact dental development. Limit pacifier use after six months to avoid potential oral issues, like misaligned teeth or bite problems.

Bacteria in your mouth can transfer to your baby, increasing the risk of tooth decay. So, avoid sharing utensils, cups, or cleaning pacifiers with your mouth (use clean water instead).

Lead by Example

Let your children witness your commitment to oral health by maintaining your own dental hygiene routine. Brush and floss regularly, visit the dentist for routine check-ups, and prioritize a healthy diet.

Pediatric Dentist in Overland Park, KS

As a new parent, you play a pivotal role in your child’s oral health journey. By following these tips, you can help your little one develop healthy habits that last a lifetime.

Start your child’s journey toward healthier teeth and gums by scheduling an appointment at Smiles Dentistry for Kids in Overland Park, KS. Simply request appointments with our pediatric dentist here or 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

Help Your Child Achieve Optimal Oral Health With These Simple Tips

Oral hygiene begins way before your child can brush his or her own teeth, and it’s more than just toothbrushing. Thankfully, there are steps you can take now and as your child grows to help him or her achieve and maintain optimal oral health.

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids in Overland Park, KS, we are ready to help you and your little one achieve that goal through routine check-ups, dental cleanings, and other oral health treatments. Give Dr. Matt and his dedicated team a call at (913) 685-9990 now!

Beginning at a young age, you can teach your little one numerous habits that will help them maintain good oral health and hygiene and understand the importance of it.

1. Make healthy snacks

Instead of sugary treats or drinks, smoothies, and healthy snacks are a great way to encourage good oral health. Think green! You can use healthy ingredients, like:

Spinach
Kale
Avocado
Green apples
Celery

Use these ingredients in smoothies and salads, pair them with peanut butter or yogurt, or bake them in the oven to create a delicious snack that your child will love.

These ingredients contain numerous essential nutrients, like vitamins K and C. Both are important for pediatric dental health, as vitamin K helps strengthen teeth while vitamin C keeps gums healthy and vibrant.

2. Offer plenty of water

Water is essential for washing away food debris and bacteria from the mouth. But, kids aren’t exactly thrilled to drink water.

So, liven things up a bit by adding a couple of drops of food coloring to their water! Alternatively, you can add sugar-free flavor packets (like lime or green apple!) to your kiddo’s water for tasty, healthy hydration.

3. Let them pick their own toothbrush

Dentists recommend swapping out toothbrushes every three to four months. If your child is due for a replacement toothbrush, then try replacing it with one of their choosing! Choosing a movie-themed or character-themed brush will make oral hygiene much more fun and exciting.

4. Read dental-themed books

There are several children’s books available that teach kids about the importance of dental care. Look for books like “The Tooth Book” by Dr. Seuss or “Brush Your Teeth, Please” by Leslie McGuire.

5. Make dental-care crafts together

Making crafts together is a great way to teach your kids about the importance of dental care while also having tons of fun! You can try making toothbrush holders, tooth fairy boxes, or other art projects that get your little one excited about oral hygiene and pediatric dentistry.

6. Visit a pediatric dentist regularly

Building a relationship with a pediatric dentist is beneficial for both you and your child. You will feel more comfortable asking questions, and your child will feel more and more comfortable after each visit. A pediatric dentist will keep track of your child’s oral health and dental development, so they can spot or predict any oral health issues early on.

Schedule a dental check-up today!

Ready to put your child on the road to oral health success? Schedule an appointment with Dr. Matt online here, or by calling our Overland Park children’s dental office at (913) 685-9990 today!

"*" 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

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

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

Dr Matt and his team at Smiles Dentistry for Kids are excited to welcome Dr Tara Craven to the Smiles Dentistry for Kids team! Dr Tara received her Doctor of Dentistry Degree at the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry and will complete her rigorous 2-year training program in Pediatric Dentistry at Children’s Mercy Hospital this June. During her training Dr. Tara received numerous awards and was part of the Pediatric Dental Honors Program where she cared for pediatric patients with special needs and those requiring advanced care. At Smiles Dentistry for Kids, families can always expect to be seen by a Board Certified Pediatric Dentist.

We are confident that Dr. Tara will provide the highest quality care and attention that our families have grown to expect and appreciate at Smiles Dentistry for Kids. Dr. Craven will begin seeing patients in August, 2023. To help our patients get to know her better we asked Dr. Tara a few questions:

Why did you choose to specialize in Pediatric Dentistry?
Pediatric dentistry is my dream job and an incredible avenue that allows me to connect with kids and families. Children not only bring excitement to the field of dentistry, they bring magic, hope and adventure. I feel honored to get the opportunity to not only provide education and knowledge about dentistry but to empower kids to enjoy brushing their teeth and coming to the dentist.

What are you looking forward to most as you start caring for families at Smiles Dentistry for Kids?
I am so excited to be able to serve this community and build relationships with kids and their families. I am passionate about providing a positive dental experience for kids that will last a lifetime.

Anything else you would like our families to know about you?
Outside of pediatric dentistry, I love spending time outdoors with my husband and Labrador, traveling to new places and spending time with friends and family.

"*" indicates required fields

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

dental fear, Pediatric dentist

How to Help Your Child Overcome Dental Anxiety

Bite Back: How to Fight Cavities in Baby Teeth

Cavities, or tooth decay, can occur in baby teeth as soon as they start coming in. In fact, cavities are one of the most common childhood diseases. So, it is important to take steps to prevent them with a trusted children’s dentist in Overland Park, KS.

Are you noticing yellow, brown, or white spots on your child’s teeth? If so, then it may be the first sign that a cavity is forming. Bite back and stop cavities in their tracks with Dr. Matt at Smiles Dentistry for Kids. Simply call our pediatric dental office in Overland Park, KS, at (913) 685-9990 to get started!

Baby teeth (also called milk or primary teeth) are crucial for your child’s oral and developmental health. Indeed, primary teeth help kiddos learn how to speak and chew while maintaining space for their permanent teeth to come in. Here are some tips on how to fight cavities on baby teeth.

Start Dental Visits Early

The American Dental Association recommends that children see a dentist by their first birthday or within six months of the first tooth appearing. Regular dental check-ups can help catch cavities early and prevent them from getting worse.

Early dental visits also ensure that your child picks up healthy oral hygiene habits early in their development. Not only that, but it demonstrates to your little one that dentists are friendly, gentle, and can be trusted. This can help reduce dental anxiety (as well as cavities!) as they continue to grow.

Brush At Least Twice a Day

The moment your baby’s first tooth appears, it’s time to start brushing twice a day. Use a small amount of fluoride-containing toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush.

You can use a smear of toothpaste for children under age three, and a pea-sized amount for children ages three to six. Be sure to brush all surfaces of the teeth, including the fronts, backs, and tops.

Floss Every Day

As soon as two teeth touch each other, it’s time to start flossing at least once every day.

Flossing helps remove food particles and plaque from between the teeth where a toothbrush can’t reach. Use a soft floss or floss pick and gently guide it between the teeth.

Limit Sugar

Kids love sugar! But so do cavity-causing bacteria. So, it is wise to limit the amount of sugar your little one ingests.

For healthier baby teeth, we recommend giving your kiddo:

Fruit or fruit-based snacks (like fruit leather)
Vegetables (the roughage is great for gently scraping plaque from teeth!)
Water instead of juices

Don’t Put Baby to Bed With a Bottle

Prolonged exposure to sugary liquids (like formula, juice, or milk) can lead to tooth decay. If your baby needs a bottle to fall asleep, fill it with water instead.

Lead by Example

Our kids are watching our every move. So, if they see you conducting daily oral hygiene, then they will learn the importance of oral health and hygiene early.

You can encourage better oral hygiene by making brushing and flossing more fun with:

Music
Games
Fun toothbrushes
Yummy toothpaste flavors
Small rewards

Schedule a Dental Check-up for Baby Teeth

When it comes to fighting cavities on baby teeth, prevention is key. So, don’t wait – schedule a routine dental check-up for your child with Dr. Matt at Smiles Dentistry for Kids today! Parents can reach our Overland Park pediatric dentist at (913) 685-9990 or online here for scheduling.

"*" 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