Children’s Dentistry – Kansas City, MO

Dental Checkups & Cleanings for Kids

When you bring your child to our office—and we suggest their first visit be between the ages of one to three years old—we’ll count their teeth and check for any signs of decay. Dr. Byars will also examine your child’s bite and assess their gum and soft tissue health. If they’re able to sit comfortably in the chair for a bit longer, one of our hygienists will clean their teeth, too.

Dental Sealants

Children’s dentistry also includes other important treatments. Dental sealants are a thin plastic coating that is “painted” onto children’s molars. This clear or tooth-colored coating creates a barrier against debris that can easily get caught in the deep grooves of the molars, which can result in a buildup of bacteria that causes decay. Sealants can last for about 10 years, but they should be checked regularly and reapplied if necessary.

Fluoride Treatments

In addition to dental sealants, Dr. Byars may recommend fluoride treatments for your children’s teeth. Fluoride strengthens enamel, the tooth’s first line of defense against cavities. With sealants, fluoride treatments, regular checkups, and good at-home oral hygiene—which we can also help you and your child establish—your children will have a strong foundation for a lifetime of oral health.

Tooth-Colored Fillings

Tooth decay will spread if not repaired, so Dr. Byars offers tooth-colored fillings made from composite resin, which provide a strong hold and custom color match. Alternatively, we can use traditional amalgam fillings upon request. We preserve as much tooth structure as possible when preparing a tooth for a filling because natural, healthy tissue is a precious commodity.

Athletic Mouthguards

Sports are great exercise and great fun, but they can put your child’s smile at risk. Get in the smile protection game with a protective sports mouthguard! Dr. Byars can create a custom-made mouthguard that will fit comfortably. While similar products are available at sporting goods stores, only a professional can give your child the perfect fit they’ll surely prefer. Call or email to schedule an appointment for a custom mouthguard today.

Learn More About Athletic Mouthguards

HealthyStart™ Early Treatment

A child’s oral development can impact much more than just the alignment of their teeth. If the mouth is too small, this can reduce the size of a child’s airway, making it more difficult for them to breathe, particularly while sleeping. With HealthyStart™, we can correct minor misalignment issues in the baby teeth to prevent further orthodontic issues down the road while also improving the quality of a child’s airway, all by using removable oral appliances they just have to wear to bed.