Margot Recommends: 5 Books About Teeth & Bravery
We know that a visit to the dentist can feel a little bit scary for young children — and let’s be honest, sometimes for parents too! As a family-run dental practice, nothing matters more to us than making every child feel welcome, comfortable, and cared for the moment they walk through our doors.
Being the daughter of dentists, Margot is full of questions, and full of opinions — especially when it comes to her books! We've found that reading together has been such a helpful (and often hilarious!) way to gently prepare her for new experiences, flights, doctors appointments, starting school! Books are a great way for little ones to make sense of things, reading is proven to help alleviate fears, start conversations, and even turn nervous butterflies into giggles.
We’ve shared a few of Margot’s bookshelf favourites. Books to help little ones understand what a trip to the dentist can be like, why we brush our teeth, and just how amazing our bodies are… from head to toe!
Going to the Dentist – Usborne First Experiences
This gentle picture book has been a perfect way to talk through what happens at the dentist — from sitting in the big chair to getting your teeth counted. With sweet illustrations, it shows children what to expect in a calm and positive way. It’s helped Margot to understand what we do with our patients every day, and helps her to feel confident and informed when it’s time for her check-up.
Margot says: “Just like you!”
Peppa Pig: Dentist Trip
Peppa and George go to the dentist, but little brother George is feeling a bit unsure. We love reading this book with Margot, she adores Peppa and feels naturally inclined to comfort George. It’s a familiar, fun story that gently reassures kids that the dentist is nothing to fear.
Margot says: “Be brave George!”
Why Should I Brush My Teeth? – Usborne Lift-the-Flap Book
This one’s perfect for busy little minds that like to have busy little hands. With loads of flaps to lift and simple answers to tricky questions, this book makes brushing teeth feel exciting. Margot especially loves learning why baby teeth fall out and how animals take care of their teeth (or don’t!). It’s a brilliant mix of fun and facts — and a great motivator at toothbrushing time.
Margot says: “Brush, brush, brush!”
Little Explorers: My Amazing Body
While not just about teeth, this book is a firm favourite in our house, by all the family. Again, packed fun facts hidden beneath flaps that show children how their bodies work, including what happens when they eat and why their teeth are so important. It’s a fantastic introduction to the idea that our bodies, including our mouths, are amazing and worth taking care of.
Margot says: “Look! That’s in there!” *while prodding Dr Chris’s tummy overzealously!*
Alan’s Big, Scary Teeth – by Jarvis
This laugh-out-loud story has become a bedtime regular in our house. Alan the alligator is famous for his big scary grin, but it turns out, those teeth aren’t real! When his secret is discovered, Alan has to rethink what makes him special. It’s a brilliant tale about being yourself, even if that means not being as fearsome as you once thought. Not necessarily about a trip to the dentist, but one that always gets us giggling — a sneaky way to open conversations about teeth without making it too serious.
Margot says: “Alan is funny but not too scary!”
A Little Reassurance, One Book at a Time
Each of these books has helped Margot feel more confident about going to the dentist, and we hope they’ll do the same for your little one. We believe visiting the dentist should be a positive, even joyful, experience — and with a little preparation, honesty and the promise of a sparkling smile, it absolutely can be.
Their First Chapter Starts Here
If you’re looking for a gentle, friendly practice to care for your child’s smile, we’d love to welcome you to ours. Our children’s membership plans start from just £5 per month and go up to £7.50, covering routine check-ups, preventative care, and peace of mind from baby teeth until their 18th birthday.
Feel free to pop by and meet the team when we open — we’d love to meet you.
