When it’s time to load your child into the car and drive to the dentist’s office, you may be dreading the experience. Unless your little one has an easy-going demeanor and is unafraid of new experiences, most children deal with severe dental anxiety before a regular appointment. Fortunately, there are ways to minimize the potential screaming, crying, and fear. With the help of a children’s dentist, you can help your little one feel more at ease by checking out these 4 books that discuss the benefits, excitement, and surprise of visiting the dentist’s office!
How Can Dental Anxiety Impact Your Child?
Dental anxiety is very real, and millions of children suffer from it. Whether it is because of a traumatic dental experience in the past, a fear of needles, or the sights, sounds, and smells, children often cling to their parents when faced with the reality of a dental appointment. In the past, very little was done to minimize these fears; however, times have changed, and more and more dentists are now providing a multitude of ways to curb dental anxiety in children, such as:
- Kid-friendly environments that contain games, videos, toys, and music that appeal to young children
- Sedation dentistry makes it possible for children with mild, moderate, or severe dental anxiety to feel at ease and comfortable during their visit
- Books that showcase the positive sides of dentistry and even discuss why there’s no reason to be afraid of your pediatric dentist
4 Books That Can Calm Your Child’s Anxiety
Books can be a great way to introduce your child to new things. Whether it’s teaching them manners, helping them to go potty, or even prepare them for an upcoming dental appointment, the characters found in many children’s books can be a positive influence in your child’s life. If you want to help your little one feel less scared and more excited about seeing the dentist, try reading one or more of these books before their visit:
- “Just Going to the Dentist” by Mercer Mayer follows the Little Critter series. The main character is preparing for their first visit to the dentist and details the process of teeth cleaning, dental X-rays, and even how a cavity is filled. It is recommended that if your child is only going in for a regular checkup and cleaning, you may want to skip the cavity section of the book.
- “My Dentist, My Friend” by P.K. Hallinan helps to eliminate the “scary dentist” mentality many children have. This book will guide your child through the entire dental appointment process, giving them insight into what they can expect and why there’s nothing to be fearful of when visiting the dentist’s office.
- “The Berenstain Bears Visit the Dentist” by Stan Berenstain is a classic story that details a family trip to the dentist’s office. Going over a normal teeth cleaning and cavity check, your child will enjoy learning about the ins and outs of a regular visit, and they may even request to read the book long after their appointment!
- “The Tooth Book: A Guide to Healthy Teeth and Gums” by Edward Miller is a picture book that actually shows a child what they can expect at the dentist. It also details why it’s important to take care of teeth as well as interesting facts and history about oral hygiene.
Going to the dentist doesn’t have to be a struggle. By choosing the right books and talking with your child’s pediatric dental professional, you can make their next visit memorable and exciting!
About the Author
Dr. Susan Podray-Donovan is a board-certified orthodontist who believes in the importance of a healthy smile for young patients. She and her team at Village Pediatric Dentistry strive to create a safe, welcoming, and comfortable environment for all patients. Understanding that dental visits can be scary for some children, she and her entire team work hard each day to offer tips and advice for parents who need help minimizing their child’s fears. Whether it’s through sedation dentistry or books that can be read at home, we can help parents and children look forward to regular dental appointments. Visit our website or call (678) 456-5572 to learn more about how we can help.