At Smiles University Pediatric Dentistry, we believe in creating a safe and comfortable environment for children of all ages. We do this by keeping patients and their parents informed as well as making dentistry fun and enjoyable. However, we understand that visiting the dentist can be difficult for some, which is why we’re here to recommend several helpful books that will change the way your little one views the dentist’s office.
What Causes Children to Experience Dental Anxiety?
Dental anxiety can be caused by many different things – a traumatic experience at a previous dentist’s office, a strong gag reflex, a fear of needles, difficulty sitting still in the treatment chair, and even the sights, sounds, and smells that are found within the examination room.
Dentists strongly encourage patients to bring their children in early on to establish a positive relationship and help familiarize them with this type of clinical environment. However, for those who do not see a dentist’s office until they’re a toddler or school-aged, this kind of appointment can induce fear or uncertainty.
Ways to Curb Your Child’s Anxiety
When searching the internet, you’ll likely find many recommendations from parents and professionals detailing how to minimize your child’s fears as they pertain to the dentist’s office. It’s important to recognize that not all suggestions work, as each child is different.
However, our dentists at Smiles University Pediatric Dentistry not only offer dental sedation (i.e., nitrous oxide and general anesthesia) to aid in calming a nervous child, but we also recommend various books that can help your little one focus more on the positive attributes and expectations of a dentist’s office.
These include:
- “The Tooth Book: A Guide to Healthy Teeth and Gums” by Edward Miller
- “Celebrate! Going to the Dentist” by Sophia Day
- “Curious George Visits the Dentist” by Margret & H.A. Rey
- “The Tooth Book” by Dr. Seuss
- “My Dentist, My Friend” by P.K. Hallinan
- “I Can’t Wait to Go to the Dentist” by Jeanie U. Allen
- “Did Dinosaurs Have Dentists” by Patrick O’Donnell
- “The Crocodile and the Dentist” by Taro Gomi
- “What to Expect When You Go to the Dentist” by Heidi Murkoff
Reading any of these books (or countless others) will help your child see there’s nothing to be afraid of when visiting the dentist. By talking to them beforehand and helping them understand the importance of regular visits and good oral health, they’ll be better prepared and eager for their upcoming appointment.
About the Author
Dr. Adam Goodwin is a board-certified pediatric dentist who earned his dental degree from Georgia Health Sciences University before completing a two-year pediatric specialty training. As one of the three dentists at Smile University Pediatric Dentistry, he and his colleagues want to create a positive, educational, and exciting visit for every child. If your little one feels nervous about their first appointment, visit our website or call (512) 400-3280 to let us provide some recommendations.