6 Children’s Books That Help with Dental Anxiety

Whether your child is scared of going to the dentist or not, broaching the subject can feel complicated or intimidating. You don’t want to scare them, but you also want them to know exactly what to expect. If you’re not sure how to prepare your child for a trip to the dentist’s, you’re not alone. Here are 6 children’s books that help with dental anxiety and make this conversation easier for both of you.

#1. Do Dinosaurs Have Dentists? by Patrick O’Donnell

This alliterative, colorful storybook is perfect for any dinosaur lovers who might be a little nervous about going to the dentist. A young child on their way to a dental checkup wonders if dinosaurs ever had cavities and if they had their own oral hygiene habits. It includes eleven common terms related to teeth and the dentist, with a glossary of the name pronunciations! The book also has fun, scientific facts about the eleven dinosaurs mentioned.

#2. My Dentist, My Friend by P.K. Hallinan

This lighthearted book helps children view “scary” dentists as friends. It walks them through everything they can expect from a trip to the dentist’s office. In My Dentist, My Friend, your child will be reassured that their dentist is an ally and that there is nothing to fear from a checkup.

#3. Doctor De Soto by William Steig

Doctor De Soto is a mouse dentist who treats his patients with the help of his wife. His patients never feel any pain due to his expertise. Dr. De Soto originally refuses to treat “dangerous” animals. However, when a fox comes in with a toothache, the kindhearted De Sotos can’t turn him away. Doctor De Soto helps your child see dentists in a positive light and that they are here to help no matter what.

#4. Just Going to the Dentist by Mercer Mayer

In this classic, lighthearted, and heartwarming book, Little Critter is having a checkup at the dentist. It covers everything from teeth cleaning to filling a cavity to X-rays. Parents and children alike can relate to this story.

#5. Daniel Goes to the Dentist by Alexandra Cassel Schwartz

Tigers have things they’re scared of too! Daniel Tiger is a little nervous about his upcoming checkup, but Dr. Plat explains what she’s doing in every step, removing the mystery of each aspect. This charming storybook lets your child know exactly what to expect at the dentist!

#6. The Tooth Book by Dr. Seuss

Although this children’s book doesn’t detail a full dental appointment like some of the others, it teaches your child the importance of strong, healthy teeth. Dr. Seuss reinforces that regular dental checkups are essential for eating, smiling, chewing, and chomping! Your child can learn about exploring all the things teeth can do, how they grow, and how to keep them in tip-top shape through fun rhymes and a colorful world.

About the Practice

At Arlington Heights Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry, our practice is proud to offer a wide range of dental and orthodontic services to patients of all ages. Whether your child needs braces or specialized pediatric care to protect and maintain their oral health, our team of dentists is here for you. We understand some children are a little nervous about going to the dentist and are here for you every step of the way. If you’re looking for quality pediatric dental care, you can contact the team via their website or by phone at (847) 255-3020.