6 Essential Books to Lower Anxiety for Your Child’s Dental Visits

As your little one learns more and more about the world, books can be a great way to introduce different concepts and experiences before they try it for themselves. For instance, dental visits can be unnerving even for adults who know what to expect, so just imagine how your child might feel going through it for the first time! Although sedation dentistry is available, preparing your child with books may help as well.

Fortunately, there are tons of books out there that talk about the importance of dental health, the process of dental visits, and what dentists can be like. Keep reading to learn about just a portion of these books and how you can use them to help anxious kids feel better about going to the dentist and motivated to take care of their pearly whites.

Books with Classic Characters Going Through Dental Visits

For many families, certain book characters are near and dear to their hearts. These series of books expose kids to all kinds of experiences, including going to the dentist.

Daniel Goes to the Dentist by Alexandra Cassel Schwartz

If you have a preschooler, you’ve probably watched and read dozens of Daniel Tiger stories. In this book, every detail of a dental exam and cleaning is explained, so your little one will know what to expect.

Dentist Trip (Peppa Pig)

In this book, Peppa guides her little brother, George, through his first dental visit. Her words help keep him calm, and he bravely faces his fears. You can help your child be brave with the same words if you like.

Just Going to the Dentist by Mercer Mayer

Even if you and your child aren’t familiar with all the Little Critter books, you’ll love this one, especially if your child needs to have a cavity filled. It talks about all the steps the dentist takes from Little Critter’s point of view, giving kids a little more peace of mind.

The Berenstain Bears Visit the Dentist by Stan and Jan Berenstain

Follow your favorite family to the dentist’s office, where the Berenstain bears learn that going to the dentist doesn’t have to be scary. Plus, the book may come with stickers!

Books Humanizing Dentists

Sometimes, visiting the dentist can seem frightening because kids don’t realize this person is just that—a person. Here are some books that let children know that the professional checking their teeth can be caring and gentle.

My Dentist, My Friend by P.K. Hallinan

Instead of seeing a dentist as someone to fear, the characters in this book encourage readers to learn to trust their dentist and see them as an ally and friend.

Doctor De Soto by William Steig

Throughout the book, patients of the talented Dr. De Soto, who is a mouse, never feel pain. However, when a fox, who is a natural predator, comes in with a toothache, you see just how kind and generous Dr. De Soto is. As a result, your child can see the good things dentists do to help their patients!

As with other intimidating experiences in life, your child’s first few dental visits may still have some tears and trepidation, but these books can help prepare them to have successful visits and have a positive view of the dentist.

About the Practice

Coastal Pediatric Dentistry is happy to have two caring, board-certified pediatric dentists on staff. Dr. James Forester and Dr. Natalie Vander Kam have been specially trained to treat young patients, even those with special needs. They are happy to discuss your child’s needs before their next appointment, so reach out to our office in San Luis Obispo online or call us at 805-592-2020.