Toothy Tales: 3 Books for Kids with Dental Anxiety

Did you know that an estimated 10% to 30% of children experience dental anxiety? It’s natural for kids to feel nervous when it comes to sitting in the dental chair, especially if they’re too young to verbalize their fears or understand your explanations.

Thankfully, there are many engaging children’s books that can help them better understand why they’re seeing the dentist and what to expect at their appointment, which can set their little minds at ease. Continue reading to learn about 3 options you might try reading to your child to soothe their frayed nerves in preparation for their visit!

Book #1: The Berenstain Bears Visit the Dentist

The Berenstain Bears is a popular series of books first published in 1951, and has remained popular among several generations of children since then. With over 400 stories published, this literary family has had all sorts of adventures, including visiting the dentist.

In The Berenstein Bears Visit the Dentist, by Stan and Jan Berenstain, your child can learn about what their appointment might include and how cavities are treated.

Book #2: Curious George Visits the Dentist

Curious George is another popular book character that spans the decades, and even has a television show adaptation. George is a monkey who has been adopted by the man in the yellow hat, and the two live in the city together (though they often take excursions to the country). This popular primate is notoriously prone to mischief, which teaches him many valuable lessons.

In Curious George Visits the Dentist by H.A. Rey, this monkey’s shenanigans can help your little one learn how common oral health concerns, like toothaches, are addressed and why they don’t need to fear their dentist!

Book #3: Daniel Goes to the Dentist

Many parents and grandparents are familiar with the popular TV program, Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, which featured Fred Rogers, a pioneer in children’s television. This popular show was intended to help teach important life lessons in a direct but gentle manner and encourage learning and growth.

The show ran until 2001, then received a reboot in 2012 with a spinoff, Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood. This animated program features a young tiger, Daniel, who sings cheery songs while learning how to manage emotions, share with friends, and attend dental appointments. In one book based on this series, Daniel Goes to the Dentist, the titular character discovers what’s expected of them when they sit in their dentist’s chair.  

Reading these popular stories with your child can help them feel calmer and more comfortable when it’s their turn to visit the dentist!

About the Practice

At Stroud Pediatric Dentistry, your child benefits from two experts who are eager to help them build and maintain a healthy, happy smile. Dr. Stroud and Dr. Ball share decades of experience and participate with the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, so you can trust that your kid’s teeth are in good hands. They collaborate to provide a comprehensive menu of pediatric services, including options for dental sedation, to meet even the most unique needs under one roof. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling (817) 441-2425.