Dentistry for Toddlers: 4 Books to Prepare Them for Their Upcoming Visit

When it’s time to take your toddler to visit the dentist, you may feel a bit unprepared. Between the sights, sounds, smells, and unexpected reactions to new people, they might view these appointments in a good or bad way. To ensure they have a positive experience – one that helps them get excited about visiting the dentist’s office – here are four books you can read beforehand to help them learn more about dental health and feel more comfortable about their upcoming visit.

The Tooth Book by Dr. Seuss

If you have a little one at home who has yet to meet the dentist for the first time, The Tooth Book by Dr. Seuss is a great place to start. Opening their eyes to the importance of good dental health, the author’s ability to rhyme and create silly stories will make your toddler giggle and smile.

The book includes colorful illustrations as well as easy-to-remember phrases that discuss teeth and how they should be taken care of to remain healthy and strong. It also informs your little one about the purpose of teeth and how they are used.

Going to the Dentist by Anne Civardi

Having a child who is unfamiliar with the dentist’s office can cause a bit of uncertainty and anxiety. Although many toddlers can be laid back about trying new things, many prefer a sense of security and safety. This means unfamiliar places and people can cause problems.

Fortunately, with this book, you can help calm your toddler’s nerves. It details what children can expect when visiting the dentist’s office, providing an insightful guide so that your little one knows what will happen from beginning to end. Sharing the details of a typical dental checkup and cleaning visit can take away the mystery that is often scary for many kids.

Brush, Brush, Brush! By Alicia Padron

Since your toddler is likely to be just learning how to use a toothbrush, this book can be a great start in guiding them through this process. As an engaging and colorful board book, the author uses rhymes and illustrations to make brushing a fun and exciting activity.

From showing how to do it the right way to discussing why it’s important in the first place, this helpful book can make it easier for you to walk alongside your toddler as they learn the basics of brushing.

Melvin the Magnificent Molar by Julia Cook

If you want to make sure that your child has a positive view of the dentist’s office, you should consider adding this book to your child’s collection. In it, the main character, Melvin the Molar, is a talkative tooth who describes how brushing, flossing, and visiting the dentist can be enjoyable.

Using cartoons to capture your little one’s attention, the book is great for those who may feel a bit nervous about their upcoming appointment and who need a bit of reassurance.

Give your child something to get excited about! By adding these books to their daily reading routine, you may be surprised at how pleasant their first visit to the dentist’s office will be.

About the Author
Dr. Maggie Davis earned her undergraduate degree, her Doctor of Dental Medicine, and completed her pediatric residency at the University of Florida. As a board-certified pediatric dentist and diplomate in the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, she and her team believe children should have positive experiences when visiting our office. This is why we are pleased to provide helpful resources for parents to use when it comes to preparing their children for their first visit. If you’re looking for books about the dentist’s office or oral hygiene that your child will enjoy, call our office at (727) 786-7551 or visit our website.