Children often face visits to the dentist with a certain amount of anxiety – if not outright fear. Since four of ten kids have a cavity by age three, it's important to get them in early. Reading books to toddlers and providing books appropriate for a child's age level can help reduce anxiety and educate the child about oral health issues. Here's a list of some good children's books about dentistry and oral health, courtesy of Wright Smiles Pediatric Dentistry:
The Berenstain Bears Visit the Dentist
The book describes how Sister Bear watches while Dr. Bearson fills a small cavity for Brother Bear. Next, it's her turn in the chair to have a dangling baby tooth removed.
Show Me Your Smile! A Visit to the Dentist
Most preschoolers are familiar with Dora the Explorer. This book describes a routine visit to the dentist's office, where Dora explores the office and gets her teeth cleaned.
What to Expect When You Go to the Dentist
Angus, the Answer Dog, takes your child on a visit to the dentist. Along the way, there are plenty of opportunities to explain what dentists do and what a visit is like, as well as why good oral hygiene is so important.
Just Going to the Dentist
This story follows Little Critter as he goes in for a thorough check-up at the dentist's office, he even has X-rays! It turns out Little Critter has a cavity that must be filled, so the book describes what happens and Little Critter's reaction to the whole experience.
Look! My Tooth is Loose!
This book is more of a general explanation of the whole process of how teeth grow and why we have baby teeth in the first place. It also includes the basics of oral hygiene, along with the “whys” of taking care of both baby and permanent teeth.
The Tooth Book: A Guide to Healthy Teeth and Gums
This heavily illustrated book provides lots of basic information about teeth and oral hygiene, what to expect when you visit the dentist and more.
Brush, Brush, Brush!
This is a board book specifically aimed at toddlers. The text is rhythmic and includes full-color illustrations or photos.
Sugarbug Doug: All About Cavities, Plaque, and Teeth
Written and illustrated by a dentist, the focus of this children's book is how cavities begin and what causes dental disease. It's a fun way to introduce kids to the concept of bacteria that causes tooth decay.
The Magic School Bus and the Missing Tooth
Mrs. Frizzle is taking her class on an outing, but it's a bit unusual. The Magic School Bus takes them inside Marla's mouth, where the kids learn about teeth and oral health.
All of these books are readily available at libraries and retail sources. They are targeted at different age groups but are all suitable for you to read to your child. Happy reading – and don't forget to contact us at Wright Smiles to schedule your child's appointment!
