Sometimes our kids need a little extra help with tasks that don’t interest them - or in this case, proper brushing and flossing. As parents, it can be difficult to come up with creative ways to get our little ones to cooperate.
Two of the most effective ways to familiarize your child with their trusted pediatric dentist is to:
- Bring them in for a visit at the eruption of the first tooth.
- Introduce them to dentistry (with books and fun videos) and tooth brushing at an early age at home.
5 Books for Kids About the Dentist
Oftentimes, a child’s fear of the dentist can also be a challenge for both kids and parents. That’s why we’ve listed five of our favorite kids’ books that present dentistry in a fun and reassuring manner!
The Tooth Book by Dr. Seuss
This is a fun read for the toddler that is discovering new things about themselves! The Tooth Book creatively lists teeth functions and how to take care of them so they last a lifetime - with Dr. Seuss’ fun rhyme schemes and style.
The Night Before the Tooth Fairy
One of the most exciting parts of childhood is having a visit from the tooth fairy! In The Night Before the Tooth Fairy, the boy tries many different and creative ways to get his loose tooth to come out. Something funny and unexpected happens to get his tooth out, and he then prepares for the tooth fairy’s first big visit! This story also presents a great exercise in patience for little ones.
Brush Your Teeth, Please: A Pop-up Book
Brush Your Teeth, Please teaches brushing and flossing techniques by presenting interactive pop-ups that the child can (gently) move! The length of the story is short, but it is fun enough that your child will want to read it time and time again. Bonus: the characters are adorable animals.
Ready, Set, Brush! A Pop-up Book
This is a great introductory brushing books for our tiny patients. Elmo and his Sesame Street friends demonstrate to kids how easy it is to care for their teeth in Ready, Set, Brush! This interactive pop-up style book shows how to apply toothpaste, brush, and rinse, and includes the characters at the dentist.
How to Help Your Child Stop Being Nervous
It’s not uncommon for adults to be nervous about going to the dentist - and it’s even more common for kids to be nervous. If your child has an upcoming appointment, Charlotte Pediatric Dentistry recommends reading these books to your child to make them feel more comfortable.
“Just Going to the Dentist” by Mercer Mayer
Part of the Little Critter series, this book tells the story of Little Critter going to the dentist, getting x-rays, and even having to get a cavity filled. This book covers a lot of what could happen at your child’s visit to the pediatric dentist.
“The Magic School Bus and the Missing Tooth” by Jeanette Lane
Ms. Frizzle takes her students on an educational, scientific adventure to discover what teeth are and what they do. This book allows children to understand the important of their teeth.
“Sugarbug Doug: All About Cavities, Plaque and Teeth” by Dr. Ben Magleby
Written by a dentist, Sugarbug Doug dives into the causes and consequences of cavities. This teaches children why it’s crucial to take care of their teeth, and what will happen if they don’t.
“Curious George Visits the Dentist” By Margret and H.A. Rey
After the ever-mischevious George bites into a wax apple and causes one of his teeth to become loose, he’s taken to the dentist and learns that it doesn’t have to be scary. This short story shows kids that the dentist can be fun!
“The Berenstain Bears Visit the Dentist” by Stan and Jan Berenstain
In addition to Brother and Sister Bear having loose teeth pulled and getting a dental exam, this book also explains the different types of instruments and tools that the dentist use.
This Berenstain Bears story has one of the best examples of how an older sibling can play the brave hero. Sister Bear is at ease after seeing Brother Bear has a pain-free experience at the dentist. The story goes as far as to discuss the tools used during a dental appointment in a way that makes it a lot less intimidating to kids!
Does your little one have a favorite dental book? Have you found other easy and fun methods to encourage proper tooth brushing? Send them our way, other inquiring parents would love to hear your suggestions!
