Even adults can find new experiences nerve wracking, so kids can break down with anxiety over going to the dentist. However, starting healthy habits like regular dental visits early in life can pave the way for lifelong oral health. But how do you calm your child’s anxiety about dental visits? You can approach it like many other new experiences for kids: through reading them books and stories! In fact, here are examples of the types of books you can read to your little one and get ready to have their visit.
Books with Familiar and Favorite Characters
Once your child has watched a few episodes of a show, the characters can become favorites. Your little one’s eyes can light up and get excited to see their adventures, or they may have toys or other products with these characters on them. Fortunately, many of the most popular toddler and kid-oriented characters have books about visiting the dentist, which can help give your child courage to do the same.
For instance, Curious George is adorable and funny, so his book about going to the dentist can show your child won’t be as bad as they worry it will. Other characters like Little Critter, Peppa Pig, the Berenstain Bears, Dora, and others describe the overall process, the ways their dentist makes them feel comfortable, how it feels to get local anesthetic, and other experiences in words that littles can understand, accept, and even laugh about.
Books from Familiar Authors
After a few books, you as an adult can start to notice things about certain authors and their stories. Although your child may not recognize it, the same can be true in children’s books. For instance, Dr. Seuss’s classic style still shines through The Tooth Book, the First Time Series talks about the first dental appointment, and Heidi Murkoff, who is the long-time author of “What to Expect” books for pregnant and new parents, has also written for kids called What to Expect When You Go to the Dentist. Knowing you can rely on these authors and series can offer you both some comfort as well as entertainment!
Alphabet Dentistry Books
Even for adults, dentistry can have many terms that are unfamiliar, and most people fear the unknown. An alphabet book for dentistry exposes your child to the phrasing that could be used in the office. Although your pediatric dentist should explain everything to you and your child need to know and won’t confuse you with too much field-specific jargon, at least hearing some of these terms beforehand can prepare your child for the appointment and make it feel a little less intimidating.
Reading about dentistry can reassure your child that dental visits are necessary and can actually be enjoyable! However, if their anxiety persists, you should talk to your pediatric dentist about it. They may offer sedation options and can use their specialized training to help your child feel more at home.
About the Practice
Dr. Patrick Bowman and Dr. Kathleen Waguespack at Wash Park Pediatric Dentistry are not just board-certified pediatric dentists, but they are also parents of their own kids. With the formal training and proven expertise as well as their personal experiences with children, they are well equipped to help your little one feel comfortable, relaxed, and ready to experience dental health care. If you need to schedule your child’s first dental visit or if you have concerns about their anxiety, just give our Denver office a call at 720-647-6310 or reach out to us online.