Happy New Year from Dr. Matt!

The year is almost over, so we wanted to ask what was memorable about 2011 for you, and what are you looking forward to in 2012? Do you have a new year's resolution, or any exciting plans for the coming year?

Have a safe and happy New Year, from Smiles Dentistry for Kids!

Giving thanks this holiday season

With holiday season here, Dr. Matthew Hillman and our staff wanted to stop for a moment to say how thankful we are to have you in our family. We realize that our practice thrives because of great patients like you. We are the lucky ones because we not only help keep you and your smile healthy, but we also have the pleasure of knowing you and your loved ones.

As always, if you know anyone we can help, just let us know. We promise to give them the same quality care that we have given you over the years.

We hope that this holiday season brings fond memories. Thank you for being part of our family.

Kids and Teeth Grinding, from Smiles Dentistry for Kids

Grind, grind, grind. If you live with a teeth grinder, you may be familiar with this unpleasant sound.  Did you know teeth grinding, or bruxism, is common in children as well? In fact, three out of 10 kids grind or clench their teeth, usually in response to losing teeth, jaw growth or other discomforts, such as allergies or infections. Teeth grinding is typically a passing phenomena as most kids outgrow it by the time they reach their teenage years. An important thing to remember is that kids frequently grind their teeth in response to stress, and taking measures to reduce or eliminate stress can help solve the problem.

The first step of recovering from teeth grinding is noticing the problem.  Symptoms of teeth grinding include:

• Sensitivity in the teeth
• Tightness or pain in the jaw
• Dull headaches, earaches, or facial pain
• Chipped, worn down, or loose teeth

If your child is a teeth grinder, we may be able to help.  Please give us a call or ask Dr. Matthew Hillman and team on Facebook!

Dental fun facts from Smiles Dentistry for Kids

Everyone loves fun facts and dental tips. Fun, fun, fun! Dr. Matthew Hillman and our team at Smiles Dentistry for Kids came across these dental fun facts recently and thought you might enjoy!

• The second most common disease in the United States is cavities. The first is the common cold.
• There are almost 9,000 accidental pockings and piercings with toothpicks per year.
• X-rays may be an effective tool in preventing strokes.
• A child will have 20 baby teeth by the time he or she is 2 years old. Through childhood, kids gradually lose baby teeth and grow 32 permanent teeth, including wisdom teeth.
• According to consumer reports, dentists are among the 5 most trusted professionals in the United States.
• Approximately $2 billion a year is spent on dental products like toothpastes, mouthwashes and dental floss.
• The average American spends about 38 days brushing teeth over his or her lifetime.
• Kids in North America spend half a billion dollars per year on chewing gum.
• Approximately 94 percent of Americans say they brush nightly while only 81 percent say they brush first thing in the morning.
• Grand Rapids, MI was the first American city to fluoridate its water.
• Earliest record of a toothbrush was found in Chinese literature about 1600 AD
• The natural bristles of early toothbrushes were taken from the necks and shoulders of swine, especially pigs living in colder climates like Siberia and China.

Your health and overall health

Don’t put off your next visit to Smiles Dentistry for Kids any longer! Over the years, oral health issues have been increasingly linked to other health concerns, such as heart disease. Cardiovascular disease remains American’s number one killer, claiming more lives than any other cause of death, according to the American Heart Association. Believe it or not, an estimated 80 percent of American adults currently have some form of gum disease. Studies have shown a correlation between gum disease and heart disease, underscoring the importance of good oral health care, both at home and by visiting the dentist.

Studies are also beginning to suggest that patients, especially those with periodontal disease, are believed to have an elevated risk of heart attack and stroke. Since most patients are not regularly visiting a heart specialist, their regular visits to Smiles Dentistry for Kids can help detect early warning signs of heart issues, prevent gum disease or at least catch it in its early stages.

Additionally, if it’s been more than six months since your last visit to our Overland Park office, please give us a call!

Happy Thanksgiving from Smiles Dentistry for Kids!

Dr. Matthew Hillmanand team would like to wish you a safe and happy Thanksgiving. It's a big food holiday, so be sure to brush and floss your teeth!

If you have any stories or pictures to share with us, we'd encourage you to post them to our Facebook page or call our office and ask how.

Gobble Gobble!

Are you wearing your mouth guard?

With fall sports close to wrapping up and winter sports right around the corner, many patients here at Smiles Dentistry for Kids will once again pick up the ball, bring the cleats out of seasonal retirement and hit the fields for the return of sports action! During this time, however, Dr. Matthew Hillman and our team urge our young athletes to play it safe when out on the field. Here are a few ways to ensure your mouth’s safety this fall and winter, courtesy of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists:

1. Wear mouth guards for contact sports such as basketball, wrestling and hockey
2. Wear a helmet
3. Wear protective eyewear
4. Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
5. Be alert, even as a spectator

We hope that helps! Dr. Matthew Hillman and team will tell you protective gear is vital for anyone engaging in tooth or mouth-threatening activities. If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact our office or ask us on Facebook. Stay safe!

Happy Veteran's Day from Smiles Dentistry for Kids

Happy Veteran's Day! Today is a day to thank all military veterans and the men and women currently on active duty that put their lives on the line for the freedoms we all enjoy.

In celebration of Veteran’s Day, Dr. Matthew Hillman and our team would like to share a few fun facts about our flag, this national holiday, and our country’s history!

-Veterans Day, a day that was originally called Armistice Day, is a time to thank and honor the men and women who have served in our military.

- President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the official legislation for Veterans Day on June 1, 1954, changing the name of the holiday from Armistice Day to Veterans Day

-There are 23.2 million veterans in the U.S.

-The flag was first approved by Congress on June 14, 1777

-Each of the flag’s colors signify different American values- red is for valor and zeal, white is for hope, purity, and cleanliness of life, and blue is for heaven, loyalty, sincerity, justice, and truth

-Research by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) helped develop the CAT Scan, the cardiac pacemaker, and the “Seattle Foot” to give those hurt the ability to run and jump

-When the flag is displayed next to another flag against a wall, the U.S. flag should be on its own right (on the left side when facing the wall).

-Veterans Day is often confused with Memorial Day. Memorial Day is a time for remembering and honoring the men and women who died while serving our country, or as a result of injuries that incurred in battle. Veterans Day honors and gives thanks to all veterans who served in our military.

-There are five states with over 1 million veterans in their population – California, Florida, Texas, New York and Pennsylvania

We are so thankful for all who have and are currently serving in the U.S. and overseas!

Donate your candy to Smiles Dentistry for Kids and win!

We hope everyone had a spook-tacular time this Halloween!

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids, we wanted to remind our families and friends that we will be collecting Halloween candies this year. Drop your trick-or-treat loot off at our Overland Park office and you'll be entered to win a $100 gift card to the T-Rex Cafe! The deadline is Wednesday, November 9 by 4 p.m.

We look forward to seeing you and all your candy soon!

Halloween TIPS from the American Dental Association

It’s almost that spooky time of year again! Whether you are going door-to-door trick or treating, attending a party dressed in a clever, silly or scary costume, or simply getting together with friends and family to watch scary movies, Dr. Matthew Hillman and our team want you to keep in mind the following tips from our friends at the American Dental Association to help reduce tooth-decay.

•Eat treats with meals. Saliva production increases during meals washing out food particles and helping to neutralize cavity causing plaque acid.

•Consider chewing ADA-accepted sugarless gum after meals. Certain sugarless gums have earned the ADA Seal of Acceptance for scientifically proving that chewing the gum for 20 minutes after meals helped prevent tooth decay.

•Follow the 1-2-3s of good daily oral hygiene: Floss once a day, brush twice a day and eat three balanced meals a day.

•Visit Dr. Matt for regular checkups.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN from your friends at Smiles Dentistry for Kids!

Cold season is here, from Smiles Dentistry for Kids

Cold and flu season is here - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that a common cold usually includes sneezing, runny nose, sore throat and coughing. Symptoms can last for up to two weeks.

To promote a healthy and clean environment, Dr. Matthew Hillman and our entire staff give a great deal of attention to sanitation and sterilization in our Overland Park, KS office at all times, as well as following all requirements for sterilizing instruments and work surfaces. For the protection of other patients and our staff at Smiles Dentistry for Kids, we always ask that patients reschedule their appointments if they have any type of cold or illness that can infect others.

And remember to constantly wash your hands and avoid contact with those who are ill! Stay healthy!

From Dr. Matt: Artificial sweeteners and your child's health

Dr. Matt knows that there is always a lot of debate in the health community about the health effects of artificial sweeteners, and aspartame is most surely one of the most controversial food additives to ever be approved by the FDA. Here at Smiles Dentistry for Kids, we try to provide you with the most up to date information on topics relating to the health of our patients and their loved ones. That is why we want to share with you a few facts that we recently learned in a Huffington Post article.

Did you know that aspartame is now sold under many commercial names, including NutraSweet, Canderel, and AminoSweet? Yes, that’s right. When checking nutrition facts, it is important to keep an eye out for all of these ingredients! This sweetener can be found in diabetic foods, jams, breakfast cereals, chewing gum, soda, and even prescriptions and vitamins.

What’s so harmful about aspartame?
With over 10,000 official complaints, aspartame reactions are more commonly reported than that of all other food additives combined. Of these reports, two-thirds consist primarily of headaches, mood alterations, and hallucinations. Determining your nutritional type and the foods that your body craves is key to satisfying sugar cravings. The recommended fructose level is below 25 grams per day, which includes both natural and artificial sweeteners.

Next time you're in for an appointment with Dr. Matt, let us know if you have any questions about aspartame or this article. As always, please remember to use a straw if you choose to sip soda, coffee, or other dark colored beverages to take care of that beautiful smile!

Friday fun facts, from Dr. Hillman

Everyone loves fun facts and dental tips. Fun, fun, fun! Dr. Matt and our team at Smiles Dentistry for Kids came across these dental fun facts recently and thought you might enjoy!

• The second most common disease in the United States is cavities. The first is the common cold.
• There are almost 9,000 accidental pockings and piercings with toothpicks per year.
• X-rays may be an effective tool in preventing strokes.
• A child will have 20 baby teeth by the time he or she is 2 years old. Through childhood, kids gradually lose baby teeth and grow 32 permanent teeth, including wisdom teeth.
• According to consumer reports, dentists are among the 5 most trusted professionals in the United States.
• Approximately $2 billion a year is spent on dental products like toothpastes, mouthwashes and dental floss.
• The average American spends about 38 days brushing teeth over his or her lifetime.
• Kids in North America spend half a billion dollars per year on chewing gum.
• Approximately 94 percent of Americans say they brush nightly while only 81 percent say they brush first thing in the morning.
• Grand Rapids, MI was the first American city to fluoridate its water.
• Earliest record of a toothbrush was found in Chinese literature about 1600 AD
• The natural bristles of early toothbrushes were taken from the necks and shoulders of swine, especially pigs living in colder climates like Siberia and China.

Five great snacks for kids

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids, we know getting kids and teens to eat healthy isn’t always an easy task, especially when they’re busy with school and other school- and social-related activities. At the school cafeteria, it's just too easy for kids to nosh on french fries, chicken nuggets and other fried foods and unhealthy snacks, so Dr. Matt and our team thought we’d pass along five delicious and nutritious snacks we know your child will love.

1. Cheese – Cheese is one of the healthiest snacks for your child's teeth. In addition to providing large amounts of much-needed calcium, cheese also does its part to fight cavities. Cheese stimulates the body's salivary glands to clear the mouth of debris and protect them from acids that weaken them, according to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. This means cheese disrupts the development of cavities, especially when eaten as a snack or at the end of a meal. Calcium and phosphorous found in cheese reduce or prevent decreases in the plaque's ph level and work to re-mineralize the enamel of your child's teeth.

2. Blueberries These tiny nutritional powerhouses are loaded with Vitamin C, as well as folic acid, minerals, fiber and disease-fighting phytochemicals, which have shown to help prevent cancer and diabetes. Kids love them sprinkled with a bit of sugar, topped with whipped cream, added to muffins and pancakes.

3. Whole wheat bread or cereal With bread, kids get their iron, vitamins, magnesium, and zinc. With vitamins, calcium, and fiber, a bowl of enriched whole grain cereal with milk—and even fruit—is a power-packed snack or healthy start to the day.

4. Almonds They’re rich in disease-fighting phytochemicals and Vitamin E, and also have good amounts of fiber, iron, and calcium. Let your kids eat them raw. (Note: Whole nuts are a choking hazard for children under 3 years old.)

5. Yogurt Eating dairy is not just healthy for building strong bones, but is essential for maintaining a strong, healthy mouth. Low-fat yogurt is an excellent source of calcium, especially when whipped up in a parfait with berries and granola. Homemade fruity yogurt pop sure beats sugary store-bought frozen treats!

We encourage you to check out the other 15 healthy snacks your child can enjoy at any time of the day! For more information about which foods are best for keeping your teeth healthy, please post your question here on our blog, give us a call or ask us on Facebook!

September is National Gum Care Month!

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids, we know that gingivitis, which is the early stage of periodontal disease, can be difficult to recognize if you’re not a trained dentist. Many people don’t recognize the warning signs – bleeding and swollen gums – as a precursor to periodontal disease, also known as gum disease. While many folks in the dental field believe periodontal disease is an adult problem, studies indicate that gingivitis (the first stage of periodontal disease) is nearly a universal problem among children and adolescents.

This month, a national campaign is under way to raise awareness about gum health and periodontal disease, and we wanted to help do our part to spread the word! Dr. Matt Hillman and our team will tell you early recognition and taking action are the most important steps to health gums, and ultimately a health body, too! Studies are published every year linking oral health, including the gums, to the health of other areas of the body, such as your child’s heart. One of the most important steps to improving the care of your child’s gums is recognizing the warning signs for gum disease.

Our staff knows these can include:

• Gums that appear red or swollen
• Gums that feel tender
• Gums that bleed easily (during brushing or flossing)
• Gums that recede or pull away from the teeth
• Persistent halitosis, or bad breath
• Loose teeth
• Any change in the way teeth come together in the biting position

If you happen to notice any of these signs with your child, please schedule an appointment at our convenient office by calling us as soon as possible. Dr. Matt and our team can take proactive steps to prevent gingivitis and gum disease, while showing you and your child how to improve gum care in your daily oral hygiene habits.

Don't throw your insurance benefits away! From Dr. Matt

Dr. Matt Hillman and our entire team at Smiles Dentistry for Kids would like to give those patients with flex spend, health savings, or insurance benefits a friendly end of the year reminder that it’s about that time to schedule your child’s dental visits so you can optimize your benefits!

Now is the time to reserve you appointment with us. Space is limited and we get VERY busy around the holidays, so don’t wait to give us a call at (913) 685-9990! We hope you had a wonderful and relaxing weekend!

- From Dr. Matt & the entire team at Smiles Dentistry for Kids

Connect with Dr. Matt on Facebook!

With Dr. Matt Hillman and Smiles Dentistry for Kids, a trip to the dentist can be fun! Our office is brightly colored with movies, cartoons and video games and a super friendly team that loves to work with children. Even if you visit our Overland Park office on a regular basis, did you know you can always connect with us on Facebook?

By “Liking” us at Facebook.com/SmilesDentistry4Kids, you will receive regular updates and announcements from Dr. Matt and our office – all through your news feed!

See you on Facebook, and have a great week!

- Dr. Matt and team

Who’s afraid of the dentist? From Dr. Matt

Does the sound of a drill make your kiddo flinch or cringe? Does he or she worry about their twice-yearly dental checkup? Trust Dr. Matt and our team at Smiles Dentistry for Kids when we say they’re not alone! In fact, the Journal of the American Dental Association has estimated that 30 to 40 million people have a fear of visiting the dentist.

To eliminate some of that fear, we’ve put together six steps to help your child overcome their dental anxiety before visiting our Overland Park office.

1. What is your child most afraid of? Is it the sound of the drill? Does he or she have needle phobia? Have they been traumatized by previous dental visits? Have them write down their fears, one by one.

2. Don’t wait. The more frequently your child visits our office, the less work needs to be done at any one visit. Simply having their teeth cleaned professionally by Dr. Matt twice a year prevents many, if not most, problems.

3. Bring a distraction to your child’s appointment. Bringing along an iPod is a great idea. Just plug in those earphones, have them close their eyes, and get lost in the music. Listening to music can also be a pain killer.

4. Remind your child to relax. Inhaling slowly, and counting to five can definitely help. Have them hold their breath for 10 seconds, then exhale slowly to the count of eight. Repeat. It’s easier if they’re not totally focused on the work going on inside their mouth.

5. Ask. Before any procedure, ask Dr. Matt or one of our assistants why we’re using the tools we’re using. Ask us what we’re doing, what the tool is used for, and how it will benefit your child during their visit. Also, please ask about anti-anxiety medications that we may prescribe to help your child relax during your appointment.

6. We are here to help you. Remember, we are health care professionals who want to improve your child’s oral health, and will never judge your child or the state of your child’s mouth. Dr. Matt and team will do all we can to ensure a trauma-free and pain-free experience!

We hope this helps! For more on dental anxieties, ask us during your next visit to our office! Or, ask us on Facebook!

All about baby teeth, from Dr. Matt

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids, we know teething patterns vary greatly from child to child—some don’t have any teeth by their first birthday, while others have a mouthful by then. Experts, however, including our friends at the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, do recommend that children have their teeth checked by their first birthdays.

Your child will have 20 baby teeth, which will later be replaced by permanent teeth. A baby's first tooth can come in as early as 3 months or as late as 1 year of age, however primary teeth usually begin to break through the gums when a child is about 6 months old. Most kids have all of their primary teeth by the time they are 3 years old.

The most important thing is not to worry if your toddler’s pearly whites don’t look perfect as they come in—baby teeth come in all shapes, sizes, and slants. Teeth generally appear one at a time over a period of months, and often—but not always—in this order: First the bottom two middle teeth, then the top two middle ones, then the ones along the sides and back. (They may not all come in straight, but don't worry—they usually straighten out over time.) Besides crooked teeth, your child may experience crowded or spaced-out teeth, missing teeth, supernumerary (too many) teeth and even discolored teeth.

If you have any questions about your toddler’s teeth, or if your child is experiencing issues that concern you, please give us a call to set up an appointment with Dr. Matt Hillman. Or, we invite you to ask us on Facebook!

Gum disease can sneak up on your child, from Dr. Matt

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids, we’ll tell you it’s easy to tell when you have a cavity; but unfortunately, gum disease can exist in your child’s mouth without you even knowing. In fact, your child can have the beginning stages of gum disease without noticing any pain or discomfort. Since gum disease can be undetectable, it’s important to watch for warning signs in order to prevent the disease from worsening!

Signs to watch for:

• Gums that appear red or swollen
• Gums that feel tender
• Gums that bleed easily (during brushing or flossing)
• Gums that recede or pull away from the teeth
• Persistent halitosis, or bad breath
• Loose teeth
• Any change in the way teeth come together in the biting position

If your child is having these symptoms, schedule an appointment right away by calling Dr. Matt Hillman and our team. We can diagnose the problem and begin treatment to save your teeth and give your child back a healthy mouth!
We look forward to seeing you!

- Dr. Matt & team

When your child needs immediate care, we’re here for you.

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids, we know dental emergencies are never convenient or timely. If you are a patient of record, we are committed to your dental health and are more than willing to see you.

We are here to help you, any time, any day, and when your dental health is at risk, we’ll do everything we can to make sure that you’re treated as soon as possible. While dental emergencies are rare, we know they can happen at any moment, and it’s important to know how to take care of your teeth no matter what.

If your child has a dental emergency after regular office hours, please give us a call at (816) 694 7822 to be directed to Dr. Matt.

We hope you’re all enjoying your summer.

When should your child visit the dentist? From Dr. Matt

Excellent question! The short answer is, "First visit by first birthday."

Dr. Matt Hillman and our staff know that cavities know no age boundaries, and that is why we recommend a visit to our office at age one. That also happens to be the opinion of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Dental Association. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that children who are at risk of early childhood cavities visit a pediatric dentist by their first birthday.

Research has shown that cavities are increasing in preschool-aged children, and that more than one in four kids has had at least one cavity by the time they're four years old. In fact, many children get cavities as early as age two.

The appointment also covers topics such as the importance of baby teeth, nutrition, development and overall concerns you may have with your child. At Smiles Dentistry for Kids, we believe that a child's first visit with Dr. Matt should be enjoyable and positive. We take our time with each patient and never rush through visits. If your child needs extra attention or time to adjust to a new atmosphere, he or she will get it.

Have you scheduled an appointment for your child to visit with Dr. Matt at our convenient office in Overland Park? We hope to see you soon!

What do you love about our community?

Our office here in Overland Park is situated around some pretty unique neighborhoods. Each is special with its own personality, created by the people and places (and our amazing young patients) living within.

Today, Dr. Matt and our team thought we’d ask: What are your favorite things about Overland Park or neighboring communities? Is there a local event you attend every year? Do you have a favorite eatery? Perhaps a favorite getaway in Kansas?

Please feel free to share some information about your favorite local hang-outs in our area, and everything you love best about “your neck of the woods.”

And, if you need to schedule your next appointment for your child, give us a call!

Have a great rest of the week!

Ask Dr. Matt: Can germs really live on my son’s toothbrush?

Thank you for the question, and yes, absolutely. Germs are known to linger on the bristles, and you risk prolonging your or your child’s sickness by continuing to use the same toothbrush. Be smart - keep a spare, just in case! To protect your toothbrush from bacteria all year long, consider the following tips:

• Wash your hands before and after brushing

• Allow the brush to air dry after each use, harmful bacteria dies after being exposed to oxygen

• Store the toothbrush in an upright position to allow water to drain and dry faster

• Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months. Worn bristles are less effective in properly cleaning your teeth, and can actually be damaging to teeth if used too long!

We hope these tips help! Feel free to call us if you have any questions or ask Dr. Matt and team on Facebook.

Join the conversation.

Whether your child just began visiting our Overland Park office and have a follow-up question for Dr. Matt Hillman or our team, or if you’d simply like to drop us a quick line, we’d love to hear from you! We love connecting with our patients online, whether it’s by sharing news on our blog or communicating ideas on our interactive Facebook page.

Please visit Smiles Dentistry for Kids on the following networks:

Facebook: facebook.com/SmilesDentistry4Kids
Twitter: twitter.com/sd4k
YouTube: youtube.com/SmilesDentistry4Kids

See you online!

Does Dr. Matt have your current contact info?

We hope you’re having a great week and a great summer so far! If you are planning on traveling with family this summer or think you might not be able to make it to your child’s regularly scheduled appointment with Dr. Matt Hillman, please let us know ahead of time so that we may be able to accommodate you, as well as schedule another patient at that appointment time.

Also, we ask that you give us a call at our convenient Overland Park office and and let us know if you have any new phone numbers or if your contact information has changed! Please give us a call with any updates to phone numbers and addresses, so we may be able to reach you. Thank you!

Enjoy your weekend!

Patriotic fun facts with Dr. Matt!

On Monday, Dr. Matt and team at Smiles Dentistry for Kids will be busy celebrating America's 235th birthday. And because we know our patients love fun facts, we thought we'd provide you with some fun facts about Independence Day! Have a great Fourth of July weekend everyone, and we'll see you next week!!

- Independence Day was first celebrated in Philadelphia on July 8, 1776.

- An estimated 2.5 million people lived in America in July 1776. Today, an estimated 309 million people reside in the United States.

- The major objection to being ruled by Britain was taxation without representation, which meant that people didn't want to be taxed by a government that did not represent them.

- In 1941, Congress declared 4th of July a federal legal holiday. It is one of the few federal holidays that have not been moved to the nearest Friday or Monday.

- The stars on the original American flag were arranged in a circle to ensure that all colonies were equal.

- America's mascot, the bald eagle, can achieve speeds of up to 200 miles per hour when making a predatory dive. During a normal flight, bald eagles can travel up to 30 miles per hour.

- The American flag patch is backwards on U.S. Army uniforms. The reason? The blue field on the flag (the part with the stars) faces forward to symbolize carrying the American flag into battle.

- Someone who specializes in the history of flags is called a vexillologist.

- The word ‘patriotism’ comes from the Latin patria, which means ‘homeland’ or ‘fatherland.’

- According to the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council, Americans consume over 150 million hot dogs during their Independence Day festivities.

- Speaking of food, there's a 1-in-6 chance the beef on your backyard this Independence Day weekend grill came from Texas. The Lone Star State is America's leader in the production of cattle and calves.

Follow Dr. Matt on Twitter!

You probably already knew Dr. Matt has a Facebook fan page, but did you know Dr. Matt and our team are now on Twitter?

We'll be tweeting as often as possible and would love if you'd "follow" us at @sd4k!

FDA Issues Warning About Benzocaine in Teething Medication

Dr. Matt and our team at Smiles Dentistry for Kids would like all our parents to know that recently, The U.S. Food and Drug Administration, or FDA, issued a warning about over-the-counter teething pain medicines that contain benzocaine, a local anesthetic and the active ingredient.

The FDA has received reports of methemoglobinemia, a rare but serious blood disorder that is associated with pain relievers, including teething gels, that contain benzocaine sold under the brand names Anbesol, Hurricaine, Orajel, Baby Orajel, Orabase and generic brands.

Methemoglobinemia reduces the amount of oxygen in the blood stream and, in severe cases, can lead to death. Symptoms include pale, gray or blue-colored skin, lips, and nail beds; shortness of breath; fatigue; confusion; headache; lightheadedness; and rapid heart rate. Symptoms could possibly follow a single application of benzocaine with concentrations as low as 7.5 percent.

Read more by checking out this very important announcement. For more information, visit the FDA website or the ADA website.

As always please feel free to give us a call or submit questions via our Facebook page! :)

Dr. Matt & team, supporting National Smile Month

Can you believe it’s already June? Today, Dr. Matt Hillman and our team at Smiles Dentistry for Kids thought we’d tell you June is National Smile Month, and a good time to remind all our patients to practice good oral hygiene between your visits to our friendly Overland Park office!

That means you too, parents! After all, there’s more and more evidence that suggests folks with gum disease are more at risk for serious health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and strokes.

Below are a few simple steps you can take to improve your oral health so that you may celebrate National Smile Month for many, many years to come:

* Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
* Floss everyday to clean between your teeth.
* Reduce your intake of sugary foods and drinks
* Visit us regularly (every 6 months or as recommended by Dr. Matt)!

If you have questions about any of these tips, we encourage you to give us a call, ask Dr. Kelly or our team during your next visit or ask us on Facebook!

Have a wonderful rest of the week!

Patient Appreciation Day on June 5th!

We are SO Excited for our Patient Appreciation Day this Sunday, June 5th! Have you RSVP'd Yet? We already have so many of our wonderful families registered and ready to have some fun!! A lot of you have also registered for the bonus entry to win the iPad2!! See you on Sunday!

Honoring our veterans and heroes this Memorial Day weekend

Memorial Day weekend is a time Americans remember all those who bravely gave their lives for our country. Dr. Matt and our team also know it's the unofficial start of summer, and for many kids, getting out of town for three days with parents after being in school all these months is sure to be sweet, sweet relief.

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids, we know Memorial Day weekend is ripe for travel. After all, it’s unofficially the start of summer and time for a season full of vacations, adventures and great memories with parents or friends. What are you up to this Memorial Day weekend? What will you be doing on your day off from school or work?

Whether you are headed to a barbeque, a camping trip, hitting the great open roads of America or just having fun in the sun this weekend, we’d like to hear all about it! Enjoy the holiday!

Is your child afraid of the dentist?

Dr. Matt knows some children fear going to the dentist, and this morning, we found a great article on how to help your child overcome fears of visiting our office, courtesy of our friends at WebMD.

Serving Overland Park, Olathe, Kansas City and the surrounding areas of Kansas and Missouri, it is our goal to make your child's first dental experience a positive one. Whether it's a simple checkup or restorative care, Dr. Matt Hillman & our experienced team at Smiles Dentistry for Kids provide comprehensive gentle dental care in a comfortable and welcoming environment. In fact, most of our kiddos look forward to their next visit! Schedule an appointment by calling (913) 685-9990, and we'll see you soon!

Ask Dr. Matt: When is it time to schedule an appointment for my child?

Dr. Matt Hillman and our staff at Smiles Dentistry for Kids want to know: is your child brushing his or her teeth twice a day? If the answer is yes, that’s fantastic! But, it’s also important for your child to visit Dr. Matt every six months (or as recommended) in addition to brushing his or her teeth and flossing. Regular dental checkups, after all, are important for maintaining good oral health. Dr. Matt can:

• Check for problems in your child's mouth that might not be seen or felt
• Detect cavities and early signs of decay
• Treat oral health problems early
• Show your child how to properly brush and floss his or her teeth

During an oral exam, we will also check the health of your mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks and tongue. Checkups will also include a thorough teeth cleaning and polishing. If your child has not visited Smiles Dentistry for Kids in the past six months, it’s time to schedule an appointment with Dr. Matt by calling (913) 685-9990.

See you soon!

Everybody’s Brushing with Dr. Matt!

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids, we agree with Dr. Matt's advice: don't forget to brush your teeth! Check out this fun video we found about brushing your teeth!

Tooth Fairy “Tooth” Box

For your child, losing their first tooth, or any baby teeth for that matter, can be exciting! They might ask you, "what do I do with my lost tooth?" Well, you simply place it under your pillow at night and when you are fast asleep the tooth fairy will come and whisk your tooth away leaving behind a special gift just for you! Here's a great craft project for you and your child from Disney that will make the tooth fairy’s job a little easier and give their tooth a special place to stay until it is taken away.

Tooth Fairy “Tooth” Box

What you will need:
• 1 large empty match box
• Enough felt to wrap the box and inside sliding tray
• Ribbon
• Glue (tacky glue or a hot glue gun)
• Markers
• White, pink and blue (or your child's favorite color) felt for decorating the matchbox
• Scissors

Step 1: Pull the inner tray out of the box and line the inside with glue and felt as shown. Wrap the outside of the box with felt and glue it in place.

Step 2: Glue ribbon to the outside of the box in a hanging loop shape. Fold another piece of ribbon in half and glue it to the bottom of the inner tray to create a handle for sliding it in and out.

Step 3: Draw a tooth shape on paper, cut it out, and trace it onto the white felt twice. Cut out the teeth and face details.

Step 4: Decorate the teeth with the eyes and cheeks and draw on a mouth. Glue one tooth to the outside of the box.

Step 5: Create a tooth pocket by applying glue to the sides and bottom of the remaining tooth as shown, leaving an opening at the top. Glue the pocket to the inside tray. Once the glue dries, the box is Tooth Fairy-ready.

Now your child can put the tooth inside the inner pocket and hang it outside their door before they go to bed!

We hope you enjoy making your Tooth Fairy Box!

- Dr. Matt Hillman, and team

Ask Dr. Matt: Why are regular dental checkups so important for my child?

Thanks for the question! No matter what your age, visiting Dr. Matt Hillman and our experienced team at Smiles Dentistry for Kids on a regular basis will help keep your child's teeth and gums healthy, and their smile bright!

Our friends at the American Dental Association recommend that you and your child visit the dentist every six months for regular checkups and routine teeth cleanings. Dr. Matt and our staff would love to see your child here every six months to make sure that his or her smile is staying healthy!

We understand that you have a busy schedule (especially during the fall), so while we like to make sure your appointments are informative, we also like to make sure they don't stop you from doing the things you love! When preparing to visit our convenient Overland Park office, please know that your appointment can last anywhere from 20 to 40 minutes.

When it's time for your next dental appointment with Dr. Matt, please call (913) 685-9990, and our friendly office staff will be ready to help you schedule a time for a visit! Have a wonderful and relaxing Easter weekend!

What puts you or your child at ease at Smiles Dentistry for Kids?

Happy Friday! Dr. Matt Hillman and our staff are well-aware that not every child is always thrilled to visit the dentist. But at Smiles Dentistry for Kids, we strive to bring your child the best and most comforting experience at each of his or her visits.

Today, we’d like to know: What is it about our convenient Overland Park office that makes your child comfortable or puts him or her at ease? Is it something about our pleasant office environment? Our friendly professional staff? Perhaps it's something about Dr. Matt?

Let us know by posting on our Facebook or Google page!

Have a wonderful weekend!

Complimentary Office Tours at Smiles Dentistry for Kids

It is our goal to make your child's first dental experience a positive one. Whether it's a simple checkup or restorative care, our team at Smiles Dentistry for Kids provide comprehensive gentle dental care in a comfortable and welcoming environment. We treat your family like our family!

One of our commitments is meeting with you and your child to help you explore all or the dental options available to him or her. We offer a complimentary tour, and, during this time, you'll have time to ask us questions and discuss treatment options available. We place a high value on making sure you have complete information before beginning your child's treatment.

Contact our office to schedule a complimentary office tour for your child. We love working with children and look forward to meeting yours! Call today.

See you soon!

Love your child's smile? Tell the world about it!

If you've spent one minute at At Smiles Dentistry for Kids, you probably know it is our goal to make your child's first dental experience a positive one. Whether it's a simple checkup or restorative care, Dr. Matt Hillman and our team at Smiles Dentistry for Kids provide comprehensive gentle dental care in a comfortable and welcoming environment. We treat your family like our family!

But we’re wondering: What made you choose Dr. Matt for your child's dental needs?

Whether you’ve just come in once or your family has been visiting our Overland Park office for years, we’d love to hear your feedback. You can write a review on our Google listing!

How important is your smile? From Dr. Matt

At Smiles Dentistry for Kids, it is our goal to make your child's first dental experience a positive one. Whether it's a simple checkup or restorative care, Dr. Matt Hillman and team provide comprehensive gentle dental care in a comfortable and welcoming environment. We treat your family like our family and help ensure a great-looking smile for your child!

And speaking of smiling, in a new poll conducted by Glamour Magazine, people were asked, “If you had to pick between having perfect teeth, eyesight or hair, which would you choose?

Well, 44 percent of folks out there are choosing teeth! In addition, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, or AACD, conducted a study and found that 99.7 percent of those polled believed a smile is an important social asset. Respondents said straightness, whiteness, cleanliness, as well as the sincerity and sparkle of a person’s smile were all important factors not only socially, but career-wise as well.

Contact our office to schedule a complimentary office tour for your child. We love working with children and look forward to meeting yours! Call today.

Baby teeth should be babied, from Dr. Matt

One question Dr. Matt and our team at Smiles Dentistry for Kids hear all the time is, “When should I start brushing my baby’s teeth?”

You should begin regular cleanings even before your baby has teeth. After each breast feeding – or bottle-feeding – use a clean, damp washcloth to gently rub your baby’s gum tissue. You can wrap the material around one finger to make it easier to remove any food bits from your baby’s mouth.

When your baby’s first tooth comes in, switch to a baby toothbrush. Look for special baby toothbrushes in your drugstore – they have just a few bristles and are very soft. There are even brushes shaped like finger puppets that fit over the tip of your pointer finger! All you need at this point is water – no toothpaste yet.

After a few more teeth appear, you can start using toothpaste, but you only need a tiny bit, and make sure it doesn’t contain fluoride for the first three years. From the beginning, have your little one practice spitting the toothpaste out after brushing. That way, he or she will already have the good habit of spitting when you switch to fluoride toothpaste, which should never be swallowed.

If you have any questions about caring for your baby’s teeth, please contact Smiles Dentistry for Kids to schedule an appointment with Dr. Matt Hillman or ask us on Facebook!

Connect with Dr. Matt & Smiles Dentistry for Kids on Facebook!

With Dr. Matt Hillman and Smiles Dentistry for Kids, a trip to the dentist can be fun! Our office is brightly colored with movies, cartoons and video games and a super friendly team that loves to work with children. Even if you visit our Overland Park office on a regular basis, did you know you can always connect with us on Facebook?

By “Liking” us at Facebook.com/SmilesDentistry4Kids, you will receive regular updates and announcements from Dr. Matt and our office – all through your news feed!

See you on Facebook, and have a great week!

- Dr. Matt and team

Cheese and your child's oral health

Did you know research shows cheese is one of the healthiest snacks for your child's teeth? Not only does cheese provide large amounts of much-needed calcium, cheese also fights cavities. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, Swiss and Mozzarella all do their part to stimulate our salivary glands to clear the mouth of debris ...and protect them from acids that weaken them.

What does that mean? Cheese disrupts the development of cavities, especially when eaten as a snack or at the end of a meal. Calcium and phosphorous found in cheese reduce or prevent decreases in the plaque's pH level and work to re-mineralize the enamel of your child's teeth.

Hope this helps!

Give us a call if you have any questions or ask Dr. Matt on Facebook!

Talkin' cavities with Dr. Matt

Our team at Smiles Dentistry for Kids read an interesting article not too long ago pertaining to cavities and how bacteria spreads from parents to children, and thought we'd share the news with you, our valued patients and parents.

According to the MSNBC article, Streptococcus mutans, or MS, is a bacterium that can pass from person to person through the transfer of saliva, and is the main culprit. Bacteria have been known to spread through blowing on babies' foods, sharing household utensils and even kissing your little one. In fact, a 2008 pediatric dentistry study showed “strong evidence demonstrated that mothers are a primary source of MS colonization of their children; a few investigations showed other potential sources … notably fathers.”

Dr. Matt Hillman knows tooth decay is caused by a combination of factors, including the transfer of infectious saliva, genetics, oral hygiene, and feeding practices, such as letting your baby constantly suck on a sippy cup full of juice or milk or other sugar-laden liquids.

Dr. Matt and team encourage you to read the article and learn a bit more about the transmission of bacteria and how it might impact your child. If you have any questions about bacteria or your child's treatment at our convenient Overland Park, KS office, please feel free to give us a call!

What are patients saying about Dr. Matt and Smiles Dentistry for Kids?

Check out what a few of our patients are saying about Dr. Matt Hillman and our professional and experienced staff at Smiles Dentistry for Kids lately! Thanks for writing in, everyone! By the way, Facebook is a great place to tell us how we're doing, but we also encourage you to head to our Google Places page and leave a short review there. Your generous reviews help Dr. Matt build more beautiful smiles!

"All I can say is....WOW!!! This dentist office is amazing. Dr. Matt and his staff are AMAZING! If I had went to a dentist office like that when I was growing up, I wouldn't have the dental anxiety I have now."

"The BEST dentist for children...ever I recently had the pleasure of taking my two daughters to see Dr. Matt. WOW! The new office was fantastic."

"Dr. Matt is an ANGEL and so are his assistants ... he is DEFINITELY a 5 star dentist with a 5 star crew and an outstanding office... I recommend this dentist to ANY parent with kids..and he see's kids 6 months and older.. YAAYYY Im happy and very satisfied!"

"I'm singing their praises! WOW is about all I can say! From the gals at the front desk, the hygenist & Dr. Matt - it was wonderful! My son is 4 years old and this was his first visit to the denist and he was talking about it for a few hours after we left."

"Absolutely fabulous! I cannot say enough good things about Dr. Matt and his office. He is an incredible dentist and his staff is awesome! And I haven't even mentioned the beautiful kid-friendly design of his office. My kids don't mind going for their checkups!"

Serving Overland Park, Olathe, Kansas City and the surrounding areas of Kansas and Missouri, Dr. Matt Hillman (Dr. Matt) is your pediatric dental specialist, providing gentle, safe, and the highest quality dentistry for infants, children of all ages, and those with special health care needs.

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month!

Beginning in 1941 as a 1-day event in Cleveland, the American Dental Association, or ADA, has sponsored National Children's Dental Health Month to raise awareness about the importance of oral health.

Tooth decay in kids is a growing problem in the United States, posing very serious health risks. Decay happens to be the most chronic disease affecting American children. A child's overall health is closely linked to his or her oral health. Developing good habits at an early age and scheduling regular dental visits helps children get a jump start in maintaining a lifetime of good oral health.

Each February, Dr. Matt Hillman, our team at Smiles Dentistry for Kids and thousands of dental professionals focus on the preventive oral care of America's children. Dr. Matt and team remind you to developing good habits at an early age and scheduling regular dental visits helps children get a good start on a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. Has your child visited our office during the past six months? If not, it’s time to give us a call and schedule an appointment!

Is sedation dentistry right for your child?

While our experienced and professional team at Smiles Dentistry for Kids strive to offer a comfortable experience for every patient who walks through our doors, we realize that fear or anxiety while visiting the dentist can affect a lot of kids anyway. For patients who need extra comfort and relaxation during their dental visit, we are pleased to offer sedation dentistry.

Does your child feel nervous or stressed about his or her upcoming dental appointment? Well your little one is not alone. In fact, almost 30 percent of the population experiences “dental phobia” when faced with visiting the dentist!

The reasons for patients’ fear of the dentist can be numerous, but are usually due to a traumatic experience during their childhood. This overwhelming anxiety can cause one to avoid modern dental care, resulting in poor oral hygiene and possible mouth-related issues such as gum disease.

Your child can benefit from sedation dentistry if he or she experiences one or more of the following:

* High fear of dental care
* Past traumatic dental experience
* Fear of needles and shots
* Trouble getting numb
* Fear of being numbed
* Sensitive teeth

We invite you to learn more about sedation dentistry on our website. If your child suffers from dental phobia, sedation dentistry may be the answer. Please give us a call at our convenient Overland Park office for more info about sedation dentistry, and we’ll be more than happy to answer your questions.

Ask Dr. Matt: When should my child visit your office?

Thanks for the question. Oral health is a crucial part of your child's overall health, and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and our staff at Smiles Dentistry for Kids recommend that your child visits the pediatric dentist by his or her 1st birthday.

If you have any concerns about your child's dental health, please inform Dr. Matt and our team of these concerns. Our team is focused at making you and your child feel welcomed at our Overland Park office.



Your child's first visit with Dr. Matt includes:

* A review of your complete dental and medical history forms.
* Complete X-rays of your teeth and mouth.
* An oral exam - Dr. Hillman will clean and polish your teeth, make sure your teeth and gums are healthy, and check for any cavities or early signs of tooth decay.

Regular recare (checkup) appointments typically take 20 to 40 minutes. Patients are seen by appointment only.

We are excited and look forward to meeting you and your child at their initial appointment. Dr. Matt's goal is to build a relationship with you and your child in a comfortable environment that promotes good oral health care.

Give us a call at (913) 871-1170, and our friendly office staff will be ready to help you schedule an appointment.

Gummy Tummy? From Dr. Matt

Dr. Matt Hillman and our staff at Smiles Dentistry for Kids know the rumors going around that once you swallow a piece of chewing gum it will stake a claim and take up residency in your stomach for at least seven years! Dr. Matt and team really hate to take all the fun out of the mystery, but the truth is that chewing gum, when swallowed, will enter the stomach and move through the digestive system just like any other piece of food and leave the body long before seven years! So, if you ever have accidentally swallowed a piece of gum, there is no need to worry!

This being said, gum does not have any dietary benefits, so while it’s not harmful to swallow, you still want to avoid swallowing it. If you are a gum-chewer, make sure you chew sugarless gum, because gum with sugar can lead to cavities. Sugarless gum still has the same amount of flavor, but with less cavity causing ingredients. You see, when the bacterium in your mouth breaks down sugar, what’s left behind is acid. This acid eats away at the enamel coating of your teeth, causing holes that we call cavities. Cavities can lead to other long term mouth problems if they are not treated in time, so it is best to try and avoid overexposing your teeth to too many harmful substances!

If you have any questions, feel free to contact us at our convenient Overland Park office.

Happy (sugar-free) gum chewing!

Ask Dr. Matt: When is thumb-sucking a cause for concern?

Lots of you have asked Dr. Matt Hillman our staff at Smiles Dentistry for Kids about whether it’s healthy for your kiddos to suck thumbs (or, less frequently, fingers). If you’ve got a thumb-sucker in the house, you are not alone. Research tells us that between 75% and 95% of infants suck their thumbs.

So, is this anything to worry about?

In most cases, no. Sucking is a natural reflex for an infant, and can provide security and contentment as well as relaxation for your little one. It’s a habit that most children grow out of between the ages of 2 and 4.

However, if your child keeps sucking after he’s gotten his permanent teeth, it’s time for Dr. Matt and our team to take a closer look. If your child sucks his thumb aggressively, putting pressure on the inside of his mouth or his teeth, it could cause problems with tooth alignment and proper mouth growth. If you’re worried, give us a call and Dr. Matt will help assess the situation, and provide tips for how to help your child break the habit.

Happy New Year everyone!