A few months ago, I found out about a really cute new book that is meant to help encourage children to learn about proper dental care and how to keep their teeth healthy and clean. Because this is something every new mother has to focus on daily, I was really excited with the opportunity to get a first glance at this book.

Melvin the Magnificent Molar review

We were actually one of the first families who were recently selected to receive a free autographed copy of Melvin the Magnificent Molar (written by Dr. Laura Jana and Julia Cook, and available on Amazon.com and Amazon.de) and I’m so glad we did. If you and your children haven’t heard of Melvin yet, you’re all missing out.

The book is beautifully illustrated and although Mackenzie still doesn’t want to really sit still and be read to, she enjoys flipping through the book herself and we can point out all the fun that the teeth are having as they are being brushed and kept healthy and clean. There’s even a little song from the happy teeth that may help encourage kids to enjoy brushing time more.

While the book is fun and entertaining, it also helps your child become familiar with all aspects of cleaning their teeth, including their first trip to the dentist. They’ll see what a dentist typically looks like, what sort of tools he’ll use and gain a better understanding of what goes on while they’re in the dentist’s chair. This way they know what to expect and don’t have to be so fearful of the unknown. I can say with certainty that Mackenzie’s first interaction with the dentist did not go so well. You couldn’t have pried her mouth open with a crowbar. And she even saw Mama AND Papa in the chair before her, no drilling required. Hopefully next time will be better…and at least she got a free bracelet out of the ordeal.

If your toddler isn’t too keen on the idea of brushing her teeth or having them brushed, try getting her to show her favorite doll or stuffed animal how it’s done. This little game works fantastic with Mackenzie right now. She used to love her toothbrush and wanted to carry around the house everywhere. But she’s definitely starting to get the hang of things and understand it’s not play time.

And of course, no book about teeth would be complete without the Toothfairy. We all loved her growing up, right? Lose a tooth, get money back– it’s a brilliant system. In fact, if you visit www.AmericasToothfairy.org and make a $10 donation, your child can get a personalized letter from the Toothfairy herself! And the money they collect goes to help children who are in desperate need of oral health care but cannot afford it.

I’m definitely looking forward to reading Melvin the Magnificent Molar over and over again. Having healthy teeth is so important…I think many of us could benefit from taking better care of our teeth. Grab a copy for yourself or a loved one on Amazon.com or Amazon.de.

Please note: The above links to Amazon are affiliate links and I will earn a small commission on each sale made via these links. I appreciate your support of NOH. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and aside from a free copy of the book, I have not been compensated for this review.