Toddlerhood consists of some of the most active and spontaneous years of a child’s life. Their fascination with the world around them as well as their non-stop energy can often keep parents on their toes all day, every day. As fun as these times can be, they can also bring uncertainty, especially if your little one is unsure about taking care of their developing smile and visiting the dentist’s office. Read on to discover some helpful books you can share with your little one to help them get excited about oral hygiene and their first dental checkup.
The Importance of Developing Early Oral Hygiene Habits
Just because your toddler might only have a few baby teeth doesn’t mean these initial pearly whites can go without proper cleaning. The moment they erupt, dental decay is a risk – one that requires careful and diligent brushing to avoid.
Many parents struggle with the notion of taking care of their child’s early teeth, especially since they’ll eventually fall out. However, these primary chompers serve as the foundation for what will become your little one’s permanent smile.
If decay, cavities, and gum disease develop, the greater the chances they will continue to have problems once their adult teeth move into place.
Seeking preventive care and establishing good oral habits early on can make a big difference in the health and longevity of your child’s smile and overall health.
Ways to Prepare Children for a Dental Visit
Whether the goal is getting them ready for their initial dental checkup and cleaning or simply introducing them to the world of healthy smiles, most toddlers respond well to books. Reading can be an enjoyable activity for you and your little one, and there are countless stories available that focus on the topic of oral hygiene.
Some of these include:
- The Tooth Book by Dr. Seuss
- Brush, Brush, Brush! By Alicia Padron
- Melvin the Magnificent Molar by Julia Cook
- Peppa Pig: Dentist Trip
- The Berenstain Bears Visit the Dentist by Stan and Jan Berenstain
No matter what you hope to achieve with these books, you can expect your child to enjoy colorful photos, funny rhymes, and positive messaging. These will give you the chance to talk to your toddler about the importance of taking care of their teeth and gums as well as why visiting the dentist can be fun and enjoyable.
About the Practice
Glen Ellyn Pediatric Dentistry consists of a qualified team of dental experts who do everything they can to make every patient feel special. Working with children of all ages, they understand how challenging it can be to bring a little one in for a checkup and cleaning, especially if they are unsure about their environment. This is where our team comes in to help ensure their safety and comfort and deliver a positive and exciting experience. If you have a toddler who needs to have their teeth checked, visit our website or call (630) 858-8755.