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Your child opens his mouth, and you see white stuff covering his tongue. You freak out! What the heck is that? In all likelihood, it’s thrush, a common yeast infection in the mouth. It looks alarming, but thrush is usually fairly harmless, although in rare cases it can spread beyond the mouth. Fortunately, a good pediatric dentist can treat thrush and provide tips to reduce the risk of future infections.

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

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

What is thrush?

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

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

Why does thrush occur?

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

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

Treating Thrush

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

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

Preventing Thrush

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

Contact Us for More Pediatric Dentistry Information

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

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

Smiles Dentistry For Kids

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

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

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

How do teething toys help?

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

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

Which teethers should I avoid?

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

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

Other Safety Precautions 

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

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

Contact Us for More Information about Teething Pain Relief 

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

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

Smiles Dentistry For Kids

14700 Metcalf Ave, Suite 110
Overland Park, KS 66223
(913) 685-9990
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
8:00am - 4:30pm
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Dental care seems straightforward. And certainly there are some established guidelines; brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits are standard protocol. But if you want to give your child the best possible oral health, there are a few unexpected tips that you should know. Of course, along with dental care at home, it is important to find a great pediatric dentist in Overland Park, KS

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

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

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

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

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

2. Start Dental Visits Early On

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

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

3. Have Your Child Brush Before Breakfast

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

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

4. Use Fluoride Toothpaste from a Young Age

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

5. Beware of “Healthy” Drinks

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

Contact a Pediatric Dentist in Overland Park, KS, Today

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

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

Smiles Dentistry For Kids

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

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

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

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

What are the different types of cracks? 

Cracks can vary in appearance and severity. 

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

Oral Hygiene and Cracked Teeth 

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

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

Accidents, Injuries, and Dental Damage

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

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

Contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids 

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

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

Smiles Dentistry For Kids

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

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

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

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

When should we start? 

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

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

What kind of toothbrush/toothpaste should we use?

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

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

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

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

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

How do I teach my child to brush her teeth?

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

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

Learn More about Brushing Teeth and Other Oral Hygiene 

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

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

Smiles Dentistry For Kids

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

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

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

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

1. Increased Risk for Tooth Decay and Gum Disease

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

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

2. Bad Breath

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

3. Speech Problems 

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

4. Potential for TMJ Disorder

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

5. Decreased Self-Esteem

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

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

Contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids 

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

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

Smiles Dentistry For Kids

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

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

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

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

Undergraduate Education 

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

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

Graduate School 

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

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

Areas of Specialization 

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

Among others, specializations can include

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

Certifications and Accreditations 

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

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

Contact a Pediatric Dentist Today 

Learn more about how to become a general or pediatric dentist. Contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids online or call us at (913) 685-9990. 

Smiles Dentistry For Kids

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

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

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

Contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids to schedule a diagnostic consultation. 

What is TMJ Disorder?

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

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

What are the symptoms of TMJ disorder?

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

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

What causes TMD in kids?

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

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

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

How is TMJ disorder treated?

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

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

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

Contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids Today

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

Contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids online or call (913) 685-9990.

Smiles Dentistry For Kids

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

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

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

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

#1: Validate Their Concerns

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

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

#2: Explain the Process

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

#3: Use Mindfulness Practices

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

#4: Hype Up the Tooth Fairy

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

#5: Face Your Own Fears

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

Contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids Today

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

To schedule an appointment at Smiles Dentistry for Kids, contact us online. You can also call or text (913) 685-9990.

Smiles Dentistry For Kids

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

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

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

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

Show Your Teeth Some Love

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

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

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

Choose Chocolate with Care

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

Drink Lots of Water

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

Give a Shout-Out to Your Dentist 

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

Contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids This Valentine’s Day

To learn more about dental health or to schedule an appointment, contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids online. You can also call us at (913) 685-9990.

Smiles Dentistry For Kids

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

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