Category: Pediatric dentist

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

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

Why are baby teeth important?

If you think your baby’s toothless smile is adorable, just wait until her first tooth appears! Babies are born with 20 primary teeth, but they don’t erupt above the gumline until between the first six months to a year. Most children have their complete set of primary (baby) teeth by age three, but every child is different.

Even though most primary teeth fall out and are replaced with adult teeth, baby teeth still matter. Healthy baby teeth can lead to healthier adult teeth and limit toothaches.

1. Healthy Adult Teeth

Young children who have a high-sugar diet and inadequate oral care tend to develop cavities. If baby teeth develop cavities, there may be significant consequences, such as:

Gum Disease

As cavities develop, the infection can migrate to the gums. Gingivitis, the initial stage of gum disease, causes gums to be inflamed, red, and bleed. Thankfully, gingivitis is reversible through professional dental cleaning and extra care in at-home routines.

However, if gingivitis is left untreated, gum infection develops into periodontitis. Periodontitis is an irreversible gum disease that ravages the gum tissue, teeth, and underlying bone. Periodontitis symptoms become more severe over time and can lead to tooth loss in the most extreme cases.

Dental Alignment

As stated above, dental decay can lead to early tooth loss. Prolonged empty spaces in the mouth allow neighboring teeth to shift and try to take the vacancy. The inadequate space becomes a huge issue when the adult teeth are ready to erupt and causes misalignment. Misalignment of one tooth causes a domino effect, and adjacent teeth also become crooked. Crooked teeth are more challenging to clean and can lead to oral bacteria accumulation.

Life-long Habits

Inadequate care can speed up the development of decay, but daily brushing and flossing and routine can help remove cavity-causing bacteria from the surface of the teeth. Excellent oral hygiene routines set a solid foundation in children to carry it into adulthood.

2. Toothaches

The source of dental pain is often an untreated cavity, cracked tooth, or infection. Toothaches can make it difficult for children to eat nutritious foods and pay attention in school.

Chewing

A well-rounded, nutritious diet is full of foods that vary in flavors, textures, and density. However, spicy, acidic, coarse, and chewy foods can trigger toothaches. A limiting diet can make children more picky eaters in the long run and make it difficult for them to reach their nutritional needs.

Concentration

Toothaches can make it challenging for children to pay attention in school, and their grades may suffer. Children with dental pain were four times more likely to score lower than their peers with healthy teeth.

Schedule Baby’s First Dental Check-up

Although baby teeth are only around for a fraction of your child’s life, they play an essential role in your child’s development. Dr. Matt offers free dental exams and cleaning in Overland Park, KS for children under the age of two. Early, consistent dental exams help maintain the health of baby teeth and help prevent oral health problems later in life.

If your child has a tooth in their mouth, it’s time to schedule their first dental appointment. Call (913) 685-9990 or conveniently message us online to schedule your baby’s first dental appointment at Smiles Dentistry for Kids.

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

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

Ask a Pediatric Dentist: How do you ease dental anxiety in children?

What causes dental anxiety and stress? Is it the sound of dental tools or the clinical smell? Is it the rumors and misconceptions spread about dental treatments? While no conclusive research pinpoints the exact source of dental anxiety, 3 in 4 children suffer from it.

Pediatric dentists and parents can help children overcome this common inconvenience. Although there are many actions that parents can take to prepare their children before the dental visit, here are five techniques that pediatric dentists apply to ease dental anxiety in children:

1. Create a Positive Environment

Despite popular belief, visiting the dentist can be an exciting moment in a child’s life! Bare walls can cause patients to feel anxious. Hence, pediatric dentists often decorate their clinics with bright colors and cheerful décor. Also, supplying child-centric media and video games can make trips to the dentist awesome.

In addition to choosing offices with a kid-friendly atmosphere, parents can encourage children to bring a positive attitude to their dental visits. Children can cope before and during the appointment by bringing comfort items from home—such as a favorite stuffed animal or blanket.

2. Speak in a Friendly Tone

As parents, we often analyze how we speak to our children because it influences the relationship between child and parent. Usually, how something is said impacts children more than what is said. Children are more likely to listen to adults with a reasonable, nice tone instead of a harsh, aggressive one. Our entire dental team is trained to speak with children respectfully so that our young patients can feel confident in being themselves and placing trust in our staff.

3. Keep the Child Engaged

The charm of young people is that they are often full of energy and life. However, it’s no secret that most children get restless without hesitation. A helpful technique that pediatric dentists implement is asking children easygoing questions to build a rapport, distract them from treatment, and just for fun. Constant, clear communication with easy-to-comprehend terminology can help reduce the anxiety of patients of any age.

4. Remain Calm and Patient

When young children feel wound up at a dental appointment, it’s important not to “poke the bear.” Pediatric dentists remain calm and try not to rush procedures because this can add to a child’s existing anxiety. Instead, our dentist takes extra time and attention with each child because it gives both the dentist and patient a sense of control in a perceived high-stress situation.

5. Use of Nitrous Oxide

Regardless of how inviting the team or practice is, some young patients may still feel anxiety, especially if their main concern is discomfort. A pediatric dentist may suggest nitrous oxide (commonly referred to as “laughing gas”) in these instances. This mild form of sedation is safe and effective for children.

Book Your Child’s Next Appointment with Dr. Matt

Dr. Matt and his dedicated team focus on forming positive bonds and nurturing experiences to help younger children feel more comfortable at the dentist’s office. By creating rewarding dental experiences early, children can take this optimistic oral health outlook with them into adulthood.

To learn more about how to help children overcome their dental anxiety in Overland Park, KS, contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids by calling (913) 685-9990 or requesting an appointment online today.

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

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

5 Smart Oral Health Tips for the School Season

Welcome back! The back-to-school season is an exciting time for both parents and children. Here are five ways to support your child’s oral health while they are learning and developing away from home:

1. Follow an oral hygiene schedule.

New year, new routines. The school year comes with many customs, including brushing and flossing before taking off to school and after dinner. Keeping kids accountable with their oral hygiene schedule helps prevent cavities and gum disease.

Does your child have trouble remembering to brush and floss their teeth? Posting a step-by-step oral hygiene instructional chart can help kids go through the motions of maintaining excellent oral health but can be more hands-off in the long run for parents who have busy mornings.

2. Provide healthy lunches and after-school snacks.

The secret to healthy teeth might be in your child’s lunchbox. Food has a significant impact on dental development and preservation.

Here are some of the best foods that help kids have healthy mouths:

High-fiber vegetables and fruit scrub away plaque. Carrots, celery, and apples are great side and snack choices.
Dairy products are rich in calcium, vitamin D, and phosphates to fortify bones (including the teeth and jaws). Low-fat milk, yogurt, and cheese pack a nutritional punch and help keep kids feeling full with added protein.
Eggs are eggs-actly what kids need to receive essential minerals for excellent oral health. Eggs are packed with protein, Vitamin D, and phosphates.
Green veggies are filled with vitamins and minerals that support healthy tooth enamel.
Nuts and seeds are filled with minerals that contribute to tooth remineralization and fight cavities.

3. Send students to school with a water bottle.

Is your child drinking enough water daily? An easily accessible water bottle can encourage kids to rehydrate while working through hours of lessons and after physical education.

According to a study published by the Journal of the American College of Nutrition, children are most vulnerable to dehydration, and dehydration can adversely affect cognitive performance (brain function). When the brain is not performing at its mental peak, it weakens focus, psychomotor, and immediate memory skills.

Water with fluoride is safe to drink and helps prevent tooth decay. Almost all drinking water in the United States is fortified with fluoride. However, some bottled varieties don’t, so check the label to make sure.

4. Schedule your child’s back-to-school dental visit.

Most dentists recommend dental checkups twice a year, and August and September are popular months for parents to schedule them for their children. At this visit, the dental team:

Examines overall dental health
May take an x-ray to check for cavities
Professionally clean the teeth to eradicate harmful bacteria

5. Prepare for dental emergencies.

Dental emergencies aren’t common, but they can happen anytime and anywhere. Signs of a potential dental emergency are:

A permanent, “adult” tooth is loose or has fallen out
Cracked or chipped teeth
Severe toothaches or jaw pain
Bleeding or swelling that won’t stop

If a dental emergency does occur, it’s essential to visit the dentist as soon as possible so that he can save the tooth or treat the discomfort conservatively.

Schedule a Back-to-School Checkup

Education helps children’s brains develop. Parents can support their children’s dental development by assisting kids in sticking to oral hygiene regimens, offering balanced meals and fluoridated water, scheduling routine exams, and preparing for dental emergencies.

Call (913) 685-9990 or message us online to book a back-to-school checkup in Overland Park, KS, with Dr. Matt today.

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

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

Why Your Child Needs to See a Pediatric Dentist

If you’re a new parent, you will eventually have to choose a dentist for your little one. Are there differences between regular dentists and pediatric dentists? The answer to that question is a definite yes! Dr. Matt at Smiles Dentistry for Kids can help you understand why.

First Things First

Baby teeth begin to grow in a child’s mouth within the first six months of life. By 6 or 7 years old, a child loses her baby teeth and begins to grow her permanent set. Without proper dental care, decay and disease developed during a child’s early years can last a lifetime.

Ok, but what exactly is a pediatric dentist?

Pediatric dentists devote their practice to pediatric oral health, from infancy all the way through the teen years. They are experienced and are qualified to care for a little one’s teeth and gums throughout those years.

Interesting. Do pediatric dentists have special training and qualifications?

Yes! Dental training requires four years of education and experience in a clinical setting. Candidates have to earn a bachelor’s degree, graduate from dental school, and then pass certification exams to become a licensed dentist. Additionally, pediatric dentists must complete two extra years of speciality training for:

Infants
Children
Teenagers
Special needs children

What kind of treatments do pediatric dentists provide?

Tons! They include but are not limited to:

Oral examinations, which includes risk assessment for caries
Preventive care, which includes cleanings as well as dietary and nutritional recommendations
Help with habit-breaking such as pacifier or thumb sucking
Early discovery of the need for corrective orthodontics, for dental alignment and/or bite correction
Treatment of cavities and other defects
Management of gum disease and conditions including ulcers, mucoceles, and pediatric periodontal disease
Emergency care for damaged or knocked-out teeth

I love my little one, but he can be a handful. Are pediatric dentists trained for tikes like mine?

Yes. Pediatric dentists know that most children are not always calm and cooperative during dental visits. Pediatric dentists know how to conduct a dental examination in ways that make children feel comfortable.

Additionally, the equipment in a pediatric dentist’s office is arranged and the office is decorated with children in mind.

Is there anything I can do to prepare my child for his first visit?

Indeed there is. This checklist should prove helpful:

Answer your child’s questions positively and avoid using scary words. The vast majority of first visits do not include any painful procedures, so avoid using words like “hurt.”
Give the child some control over the visit. Letting him decide which of his favorite toys to bring along, for example, may help.
Once you’re at the office, let your dentist have the stage. This will allow him to connect and build a relationship with your child. (Remember there will be plenty of time to ask questions after the examination.)

Do I, as a parent, have a role to play in my child’s ongoing oral health?

Yes. In fact a parent or caregiver plays the most important role in a child’s ongoing dental care. Ask questions to make sure you understand the dentist’s recommendations. This includes discussing topics like cavity prevention, treatment and when the use of anesthesia may be recommended.

Dr. Matt and our team are ready to help you and your little one with every step of his oral care. Call our Overland Park, KS, office at (913) 685-9990 or schedule an appointment online today.

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

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

Gum-believable Ways to Prevent Periodontal Disease in Children

While it’s more prevalent in adults, younger kids and adolescents are still at risk for periodontal (gum) disease. Something worth smiling about is that gum disease is treatable. In this article, we talk about gum disease and how to handle it.

How Gum Disease Forms in Children

When harmful bacteria, food particles, and sugar build up on teeth and gums, they produce a sticky film called plaque. Plaque buildup can lead to puffy, inflamed, and bleeding gums. If this gets worse, severe gum disease can loosen teeth and damage the soft tissue and bones underneath them.

Signs of Gum Disease in Children and Teens

Chronic gingivitis is widespread in children and is the mildest form of gum disease. Here are four signs of gingivitis:

Inflamed gums that look puffy, swollen, and bright red
Bleeding gums during brushing, flossing, or any other time
Bad breath (halitosis) that does not clear up after brushing and flossing
Calculus (hardened plaque and tartar) builds up

Thankfully, gingivitis is treatable and reversible through at-home hygiene routines and professional dental intervention. However, left untreated, gingivitis can gradually progress into more severe forms of periodontal disease.

Periodontitis happens in otherwise healthy young people and typically attacks around puberty or later in life. The three stages of periodontitis are:

· Early stages of periodontitis stem from gingivitis. Gums may recede or move away from the teeth and sometimes expose tooth roots. Slight bone and connective tissue loss are common signs during the initial stage of periodontitis. Patients may also experience sensitivity to temperature or discomfort when chewing.

· Moderate periodontitis is more destruction of bone and connective tissue. Multiple teeth may be abnormally spaced and feel loose or separated. Periodontal pockets begin to form and fill with bacteria and tartar.

· Severe jaw bone loss and increased tooth mobility accompany advanced forms of gum disease. Periodontal pockets deepen and may fill with bacteria, tartar, and even pus (if infected). Teeth are more at risk of falling out at the advanced stage of gum disease.

How to Prevent Gum Disease

A consistent oral hygiene routine is the most efficient way to prevent and treat gum disease. Simple oral hygiene care includes:

Thoroughly brushing and flossing teeth twice a day
Using a pea-sized fluoridated toothpaste (if the child is over two years of age)
Rinsing the mouth with a mouthwash to reduce oral bacteria
Enjoying a healthy diet that is low in sugar and starch
Visiting the dentist twice a year for checkups and cleanings

Good oral hygiene routines are essential for babies, children, and teenagers. While it’s normal for a kid to sneak a sweet treat or miss brushing here and there—sticking to at-home oral hygiene, eating a balanced diet, and regular dental checkups are imperative. These healthy habits help protect children against gum disease and other health problems.

How to Treat Gum Disease

Here are some ways dentists treat all stages of gum disease:

Good dental habits (as mentioned in the last section) can help fight gingivitis.
Scaling and root planing can remove plaque and tartar on the surface of the teeth and under the gum lines. This treatment can also smooth tooth roots and reattach gums to the teeth.
Antibiotics may be put in the periodontal pockets or orally in a pill form. Sometimes, dentists also prescribe an anti-bacterial
Surgery is needed to restore gingival tissues damaged by advanced gum disease.

Track and Treat Gum Disease in Overland Park, KS

Childhood gum disease requires professional care. Dr. Matt helps parents manage and treat gum conditions that detriment oral health and overall wellness. Call 913-685-9990 or message us online to schedule an appointment at Smiles Dentistry for Kids.

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

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

Want to know what to expect at your child’s first visit to the dentist? Read this!

The American Dental Association states that children should have their first dental visit either after their first tooth erupts or before their first birthday (whichever happens first). This first appointment is crucial to creating the foundation for life-long oral health.

Here are some key topics that a pediatric may go over during the first dental visit:

Growth and Development of Teeth and Jaws

Surprisingly to most people, genetics play a minimal role in jaw development. Jaw development is primarily a product of the environment in which they are growing.

The “big three” impacts on facial development and resting oral posture are:

Lips sealed with teeth lightly touching
Proper tongue posture on the roof of the mouth
Nasal breathing

Craniofacial imbalances happen when these three factors are not present during growth and development. This may create cosmetic and medical issues, such as midface deficiency and long-face syndrome.

Thumb and Pacifier Habits

Babies have a natural sucking reflex that encourages self-soothing. Sucking thumbs, pacifiers, and other objects may help babies feel more secure and content as they navigate the world around them and help them fall asleep.

The American Dental Association encourages children to stop sucking before the permanent front teeth are ready to erupt (typically between ages two and four). Sucking modifies the roof of the mouth. After the permanent teeth come in, sucking may cause issues with the proper growth and alignment of teeth.

Cavity Prevention

Unfortunately, cavities are a common occurrence in young children. The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research reports that 42% of children will develop at least one cavity before their 11^th birthday. Cavities aren’t difficult to treat but diligently preventing cavities is the best way to treat them.

Here are some ways to keep tooth decay at bay in young children:

Engage in proper oral hygiene routines early: Parents should start cleaning their child’s teeth with water as soon as they erupt. A wet rag or baby toothbrush will work. When children become more active, turn teeth brushing into a fun game! Who can clean all their teeth the best? Child vs. parent, child vs. child, or both!
Avoid carbohydrate-rich foods: Bacteria love sugary and starchy foods as much as we do! Prolonged exposure to oral bacteria creates enamel erosion, which increases the risk of decaying baby teeth. After enjoying a sugary snack, have your child drink a glass of water. Wait at least 30 minutes before brushing to protect his or her dental enamel.
Never allow your child to go to bed with a baby bottle: As mentioned above, oral bacteria thrive on sugar (including lactose found in milk). Baby bottle tooth decay develops after long-lasting exposure to sugary liquids. If your child needs a drink during naps and bedtime, choose water.
Brush with a fluoridated toothpaste at two years old: Fluoride can help make the “terrible twos” better by protecting your toddler’s teeth against cavities. Talk to a pediatric dentist about how much fluoride toothpaste is appropriate for your little one.
Plan regular visits to the dentist: Like people of all ages, children should see the dentist every six months. Routine visits an experienced and friendly pediatric dentist can help monitor and preserve dental health.

Schedule Your Child’s First Dental Visit Today

Our Smiles Dentistry for Kids family is dedicated to protecting the smiles of your little one by offering personalized, detail-oriented check-ups in an easy-going environment. Schedule your child’s first dental appointment with Dr. Matt by calling (913) 685-9990.

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

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

What Parents Should Know About Fluoride

We hear over and over again how important fluoride is for our teeth, but many of us don’t understand why. Understanding the value of fluoride is especially important for parents who want to help their children avoid cavities and achieve optimal oral health (and we know you do!).

A Brief History Lesson

Fluoride is a natural mineral found in rocks, rivers, lakes, oceans, soil, and certain foods. In 1944, the City Commission of Grand Rapids, Michigan voted to add fluoride to its community water system. During the 15-year study, researchers monitored the effects of water fluoridation on the children in Grand Rapids. Their findings? The number of cavities in children who were born after 1944 dropped more than 60 percent.

Since this discovery, many cities have added fluoride to their community water systems, and it has been added to most oral hygiene products for children and adults. Got more questions? We’ve got answers! Continue reading to learn more about fluoride and its effects.

What does the ADA think about water fluoridation?

The American Dental Association fully supports the addition of fluoride into community water systems. Based on years of research and the obvious benefits, the ADA states that fluoridation is “the single most effective public health measure to prevent tooth decay.”

How does fluoride fight cavities?

Fluoride, the chemical ion of fluorine, strengthens dental enamel and prevents cavities from forming by combining with the calcium and phosphate in saliva.

Foods like bread, crackers, candy, and noodles trigger cavity-causing bacteria. These bacteria eat away and weaken dental enamel, making it vulnerable to developing cavities. Saliva on its own replaces the calcium and phosphate that these bacteria strip from the teeth, but it is not always strong enough to fight against the disease-causing bacteria.

Fluoride combined with saliva creates a substance called fluoroapatite. This combination of minerals strengthens and protects the dental enamel from decay.

Is there such a thing as too much fluoride?

Yes. Dental fluorosis is the greatest risk for children who consume too much fluoride. This condition is also known as mottled teeth. Children who swallow fluoride toothpaste or take fluoride supplements may develop streaks, spots, or pits on their teeth. Severe cases of dental fluorosis can cause brown, black, or gray spots on the teeth. While we hope this issue never occurs, the good news is that it is purely cosmetic.

When children with dental fluorosis are older, dentists may recommend teeth whitening to even out the surfaces of the teeth.

When should children start using fluoride toothpaste?

The ADA guidelines on fluoride toothpaste are as follows:

Infants receive appropriate amounts of fluoride through breast milk, ready-to-feed formula, and powdered formula. Mix powdered formula with water that is demineralized, purified, distilled, or de-ionized to ensure he or she isn’t consuming too much fluoride.
Parents of children younger than 3 should place a tiny amount of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice) on the child’s toothbrush.
For children ages 3-6, use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste.
The National Institutes of Health estimates that children ages 9-13 have a daily intake of no more than 2 mg of fluoride, and teens ages 14-18 have no more than 3 mg of fluoride daily.

Children are most at risk for dental fluorosis until age 8. As soon as your child is able, teach him or her to spit out the toothpaste and avoid swallowing it.

Talk to an experienced and trusted pediatric dentist about introducing your little one to fluoride.

Learn More from Dr. Matt, Overland Park Pediatric Dentist

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids, Dr. Matt’s goal is to educate children and their parents on how to avoid childhood tooth decay and achieve optimal oral health. He does this through kid-friendly teaching and easy-to-understand explanations for parents.

Call our friendly dental team today at (913) 685-9990 to schedule an initial consultation or dental check-up for your little one.

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

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

Pediatric Dentist Discusses Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Children

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a condition that causes a person to stop breathing while sleeping because of a blocked airway. In children, OSA is most often caused by enlarged tonsils and adenoids but can also be caused by obesity. If left untreated, obstructive sleep apnea can lead to detrimental oral, physical, mental, and behavioral problems.

Children with obstructive sleep apnea often suffer from poor oral health caused by bruxism, poor performance in school because of a lack of concentration, behavioral issues like impulsiveness, and cardiopulmonary disease.

Thankfully, all hope is not lost! If your little one is suffering from obstructive sleep apnea, a pediatric dentist can offer an effective solution. Continue reading to learn about how OSA in children is diagnosed and treated.

Symptoms and Diagnosis of OSA

Sleep apnea isn’t always as easy to detect in children as it is in adults. Snoring, of course, is one major symptom, but it doesn’t necessarily mean your child has OSA. To diagnose obstructive sleep apnea, dentists and other doctors ask specific questions about the symptoms your little one is experiencing.

The symptoms of sleep apnea in children include:

Night sweats
Sleep talking
Sleepwalking
Bedwetting
Coughing or choking while sleeping
Daytime sleepiness
Behavioral problems like hyperactivity, impulsiveness, and rebelliousness
Difficulty controlling emotions
Headaches in the morning
Waking up with a dry mouth or sore throat
Restlessness

If your little one has any combination of these symptoms, contact a sleep doctor to schedule a sleep study. You can also schedule an appointment with your child’s pediatric dentist who can identify signs and symptoms of OSA and refer your child to a sleep doctor.

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, dentists should do the following to determine whether a patient has sleep apnea or not:

Screen the patient for snoring and sleep-related breathing disorders
Screen patients for OSA
Assess tongue positioning
Assess the tonsillar pillar
Refer patients to the appropriate medical providers

Treatment Options for Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Treatment for sleep apnea in children is an absolute necessity. There are several options available to children with obstructive sleep apnea. The most common pediatric OSA treatments include:

Adenotonsillectomy: surgery to remove the tonsils and adenoids
Myofunctional therapy: mouth and throat exercises
Continuous positive airway pressure: a machine that pumps air into the airway
Oral appliances: devices that reposition the jaw or tongue to open the airway
Weight loss: a pediatrician can create a healthy diet and exercise plan that helps the child lose weight and alleviate the symptoms of OSA
Allergy treatment: medications that reduce airway constriction caused by sinus inflammation
Positional therapy: training the child to sleep in a different position

Every child is unique and will require a unique treatment plan that reduces or eliminates the symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea. Your child’s pediatric dentist can work with a sleep doctor or pediatrician to create an effective and beneficial treatment. This may include several treatments or just one.

Learn More About OSA

If you’re concerned that obstructive sleep apnea may the cause of your child’s symptoms, don’t wait to visit with a pediatric dentist or sleep doctor. At Smiles Dentistry for Kids, Dr. Matt is passionate about helping children live happy and healthy lives. Part of that is identifying signs and symptoms of OSA.

To schedule an initial consultation for your child, contact our friendly dental team today at (913) 685-9990.

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

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

Causes and Consequences of Dental Fear in Children

Dental fear is common in children and adults. In almost every case, this is a learned behavior that isn’t caused by a first-hand experience. Sadly, dental fear in children can lead to serious oral health problems later in life.

As a parent, you hope to raise a healthy and happy child. Dental fear puts both of those goals at risk. In this blog, we’ll discuss what causes dental fear in children, the consequences of dental fear, and how to help your little one overcome it.

Causes of Dental Fear

A child who has never been to the dentist may have different fears than one who has experienced the dentist. Therefore, the causes of dental fear are wide-ranging. Here are the most common reasons that children are afraid of the dentist:

The child is unprepared for the appointment. Fear of the unknown is real and valid. Children may express fear or anxiety about an upcoming dental appointment because they don’t know what to expect.
Their parents are afraid of the dentist. Try not to project your own fear of the dentist onto your little one. The same goes for all of the other adults in your child’s life! The way you talk about the dentist matters and has an immense impact on how he will act during the appointment and his oral health.
TV shows or books portray the dentist as scary. Dental appointments and procedures are the topic of many TV shows and books. In some cases, the main character is afraid at first, but the appointment ends up going a lot better than expected. In other shows, the character has a really bad experience. This can lead your child to believe that all dentists are bad and should be feared.
The child had a bad experience at the dentist’s office. A first-hand poor experience at the dentist’s office can be difficult to overcome. If your little one had a bad dental appointment, we are so sorry to hear that! Hopefully, a new dentist can undo the damage.

Consequences of Dental Fear

Just like any other fear, dental fear has consequences. For children, it may mean that their parents are less likely to bring them to the dentist regularly. This could lead to untreated oral health issues, early tooth loss, and improper dental development.

Children with dental fear grow up to be adults who avoid the dentist’s office at all costs which may result in serious oral and overall health problems like cavities, gum disease, poor self-esteem, diabetes, and heart disease.

Help Your Child Overcome Dental Fear

Want to ensure your little one grows up with a healthy smile and good oral hygiene habits? Here are five ways to ease your child’s dental fear:

Change the narrative. Tell your child about a positive experience you have had with a dentist. it could be as simple as your first dental experience as a child, a dental cleaning appointment that went off without a hitch, or a serious procedure that made you feel so much better.
Prepare her for the appointment. Play dentist at home, using common household items as dental tools. Make sounds with your mouth that the real ones will make at the office, have your child sit back as if she was in the dental chair, brush her teeth, and have her pretend to be the dentist, too!
Allow him to bring comfort items. No rule says a child can’t bring a stuffed animal, blanket, or toy to the dentist’s office. In fact, our pediatric dentist encourages it! We want your little one to feel as comfortable and at home as possible.
Watch a TV show that portrays the dentist in a positive light. Peppa Pig, Dora, Arthur, and several other kids’ shows have episodes where the main character overcomes their own dental fear when they realize the dentist isn’t really scary at all. This should help ease your little one’s fear and anxiety.
Find the best pediatric dentist near you. An experienced, trusted, and passionate pediatric dentist will ensure your child has the best dental experience possible. Ask your friends and family for recommendations, check Google reviews, and make sure the dentist is the right fit for your little one.

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids, Dr. Matt is passionate about providing comfortable, kid-friendly dental care to help his patients achieve and maintain optimal oral health. If you’re searching for a pediatric dentist in Overland Park, KS, look no further! Contact our office today at (913) 685-9990 to schedule an initial consultation.

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