A trip to the dentist can be a daunting experience for children. It’s a strange place full of unfamiliar sounds and scary-looking instruments that can lead to anxiety. Fortunately, there’s a very effective way to start breaking through these fears before they even set foot into the office—reading! Children’s books that discuss dental visits in a positive and relatable way can help de-spookify the experience and prepare your child for their dental appointment. Here are some recommended reads!
The Crocodile and the Dentist by Taro Gomi
This silly tale features a crocodile who’s afraid of the dentist and a dentist who’s equally (and understandably) nervous about treating a crocodile! Their mutual anxiety leads to a heartwarming story about overcoming the fear of the unknown. The playful illustrations and lighthearted story make it an excellent choice for easing dental anxiety.
Daniel Goes to the Dentist by Alexandra Cassel Schwartz
This book invites you to join Daniel Tiger as he goes to his first dentist appointment. What follows is a step-by-step walkthrough of a typical visit, from the waiting room to the dental chair. Each step is fully described, providing a clear and comforting overview of what to expect. It’s a great way for parents to prepare their young children for visits of their own.
Doctor De Soto by William Steig
In this wholesome story, a kind-hearted mouse dentist treats a fox with a toothache, despite the obvious risks. The tale emphasizes the dentist’s compassion, professionalism, and the importance of dental care. While your child falls in love with Dr. De Soto, be sure to mention that the dentist they’re going to see soon is just like him! It’s a sure-fire cure for dental anxiety.
The Tooth Book by Dr. Seuss
Dr. Seuss brings his signature rhymes and whimsical illustrations to this informative book that’s all about teeth. While not solely focused on dental visits, it covers some aspects of dental health in an entertaining way, encouraging children to take care of their tusks.
There’s hardly anything more powerful than a good book! By sharing these stories with your child, you can begin to talk about their feelings and questions around dental visits. Together with your child’s dentist, you can bridge the gap between fear and reality to help them love going to their appointments and taking care of their tiny teeth!
About the Author
If you’re looking for a board-certified pediatric dentist near Garland who makes dentistry fun, Dr. Lily is here to help! She earned her dental doctorate from the Western University of Health Sciences and furthered her education with a pediatric certification at the University of Nevada. She’s a highly educated professional who loves working with her tiny patients! Call (469) 925-0861 to schedule an appointment for your child at Shiny Smiles Pediatric Dentistry or visit our website to explore a full menu of services.