books about going to the dentist -- adult woman reading a book to a young boy

10 Best Dental Health Books for Kids

A child’s first trip to the dentist can be a bit intimidating or frightening for them, and some parents and guardians find it difficult to explain to a child what happens when they go to the dentist. To help prepare children for their first dental visit, here is a list of Sunrise Dental’s favorite books about going to the dentist. 

Our Favorite Books about Going to the Dentist

Just Going to the Dentist (Little Critter)

In the classic story Just Going to the Dentist, Little Critter experiences his first dental check-up. Kids will learn about dental x-rays, what happens during teeth cleanings, and what happens if the dentist finds a cavity. 

Dora Goes to the Dentist

If your child loves Dora the Explorer, then they’ll love Dora Goes to the Dentist. In this book, Dora details her first experience at the dentist, helping to familiarize children with everything they will encounter at the dentist’s office. The storybook is a 2-in-1 book that also includes Dora Goes to the Doctor

Dentist (First Time) 

Dentist is a book specially designed for answering questions a young child may have about their first dentist appointment. Featuring simple text and engaging illustrations, the book provides a perfect way to open dialogue between parents and children about their upcoming dental visit and any worries they might have. 

The Berenstain Bears Visit the Dentist

Another classic storybook is The Berenstain Bears Visit the Dentist. Young readers join Brother and Sister bear when Mama and Papa bring them to the dentist for the very first time. The book discusses teeth cleaning and checking teeth for cavities. And Brother and Sister hear about the Tooth Fairy for the first time, too!

Daniel Goes to the Dentist

In one of our favorite dental health books for preschoolers, young Daniel Tiger is nervous about going to the dentist for the first time. Daniel Goes to the Dentist not only explains what happens during Daniel’s first dental visit, it also introduces an adorable song about how to brush your teeth properly. 

The Crocodile and the Dentist

Crocodile has a toothache, but he’s afraid of the Dentist. And the Dentist wants to help, except he’s afraid of Crocodile! In the beautifully illustrated book The Crocodile and the Dentist, both characters have to learn to be brave and work through their fears so they can help each other. The book provides coping skills for kids scared of the dentist in a light-hearted way. 

Curious George Visits the Dentist

Parents who loved Curious George and The Man With the Yellow Hat as kids will love this book. In Curious George Visits the Dentist, George has a tooth that begins to wiggle after biting an apple. Although George is nervous about going to the dentist, he finds the dentist is not so scary after all. 

The Tooth Book

Who doesn’t love a Dr. Seuss book? In The Tooth Book, little readers learn about all the things that healthy teeth can do. The book also emphasizes the importance of taking good care of your teeth and gums. 

The Tooth Book: A Guide to Healthy Teeth and Gums

In our opinion, one of the best children’s books about brushing teeth is The Tooth Book: A Guide to Healthy Teeth and Gums. This fun read covers it all, from tips for kids on how to properly take care of their teeth and gums, to what to expect during their first dentist appointment. Lots of colorful illustrations and interesting dental facts keep kids engaged.

Doctor De Soto

Although this is not technically a book about going to the dentist, Doctor De Soto is still a must-read in our opinion. A Newbery Honor winner written by the same author who wrote Shrek, this book tells the story of a mouse dentist who manages the dental health of other animals. One day a fox comes in with tooth pain and asks for Doctor De Soto’s help. The kind-hearted doctor wants to help the fox, but worries the fox will eat him. This book is not just an amazing story, it also helps children see the dentist as someone who cares about their patients. 

Dental Care for the Whole Family in Peoria, Arizona

We hope that this list of books about going to the dentist will help you ease your child’s anxiety about their first dental visit. Every child deserves a fun and relaxing first dental appointment! 

At Sunrise Dental, we take pride in making sure all our patients—no matter how small—have an amazing experience at our practice. We also want to make sure your kids grow up with healthy teeth! If it’s time for your child’s first dental appointment, call us today at 623-888-8792 to make an appointment. 

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