The first trip to the dentist can be an intense experience for children, as well as their parents. Between all the bright lights, sudden sounds, and unfamiliar faces, it’s quite a lot for a young child to handle. However, there are several things you can do to prepare your little one to receive routine dental care for the first time – and believe it or not, reading them the right book can actually do quite a lot to put their doubts to rest. Here are some ideas for you to consider, along with a few other general, helpful tips.
4 Books That Can Help Children with Dental Anxiety
There are all kinds of children’s dentistry books out there, but four of the most beloved and informative options that parents and children alike love include these:
Just Going to the Dentist by Mercer Mayer
This story is ideal for introducing young children to the basics of dental checkups, and it even covers more complex procedures including taking X-rays and receiving dental fillings.
The Berenstain Bears Visit the Dentist by Stan & Jan Berenstain
The Berenstain Bears have been around for decades, and this series of books has covered various topics, including dental visits. In this story, the whole family goes in for a checkup and cleaning, and overall, it’s an unbelievably positive experience!
Curious George Visits the Dentist by Margret & H.A. Reys
Many of us grew up reading Curious George books – and in this classic tale, George conquers his own dental-related anxiety and learns that visiting the dentist is nothing to be afraid of.
The Tooth Book by Dr. Seuss
Even though this book doesn’t detail a full dental appointment like several others, it’s still a great resource for teaching your child about the importance of maintaining healthy, strong teeth and clean, problem-free gums.
Other Tips for Helping Your Kid Manage Their Dental Anxiety
Of course, you don’t have to rely solely on literature to help your child feel brave and prepared for this dental checkup. Some other useful tips include:
- Show up early so that your child has time to relax and acclimate themselves to the dental office.
- Use kid-friendly language and simple terms that children can understand.
- Let your child’s dentist know about any past negative dental experiences, as well as any sensory issues they have so that they can accommodate them properly.
- Roll-play at home; by starting in a familiar place, it might be easier to guide your little one through some of the basic steps of a dental appointment.
For adults, dental visits are something we’re quite accustomed to – but young children often don’t have a real idea of what to expect! These books can easily fill the gaps in their knowledge and ensure a smooth experience for all parties involved.
About the Practice
Our team here at Kids’ Smiles on Lincoln has served the dental needs of families in the Worcester community for several years under the leadership of Dr. Myles Clancy. We proudly offer a wide range of pediatric dental services for children of all ages. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with our team to set up an appointment for your child, please reach out online or over the phone for more information. Telephone: (508) 290-0090.