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Social stories · ages 5–9 · 2-minute read

Going to the dentist: a social story

A calm, step-by-step story about a dentist check-up. Read it together before the appointment.

Read the story

By the Cala Luna team · Reviewed 24 October 2026 · The research behind it

The story

Read it aloud together, one card at a time. Point to the pictures and let your child read the last card.

  1. Dentists help keep my teeth healthy and strong.

  2. First I wait in the waiting room. I can look at a book or hold my toy.

  3. The dentist says hello. They usually wear a mask and gloves to keep everyone clean.

  4. I sit in a special chair. It tips back slowly, like a gentle ride.

  5. A bright light shines on my teeth. I can close my eyes or wear sunglasses.

  6. The dentist uses a small mirror to count my teeth. I open wide.

  7. Sometimes a little straw sucks up water. It makes a slurpy sound.

  8. If I need a break, I can raise my hand.

  9. When the check-up is finished, I have looked after my teeth. Well done me!

My calm plan

Pick one or two before the day, and practise them at home.

  • 🧸 Hold my toy
  • 😎 Wear sunglasses
  • ✋ Raise my hand
  • 🔢 Count to ten

Free printable social story from calalunakids.com/social-stories/dentist/

Made about your child

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Mila, a young lynx in a red headband and striped T-shirt

How to use this story (for grown-ups)

  • Play "dentist" at home: count teeth with a small mirror and a torch, and take turns in the big chair (a sofa works).
  • Agree a stop signal, such as a raised hand, and ask the dentist to honour it. Knowing they can stop makes it easier for children to keep going.
  • Book an early appointment, when waiting rooms are quieter and your child is less tired.
  • Praise the step ("you opened wide for the mirror"), not the absence of fear.

Why these steps: what 30 years of research says about social stories.

Questions parents ask

What if my child will not open their mouth?

Practise at home first. Many dental practices offer a short "getting to know you" visit for anxious children, where they just sit in the chair and meet the dentist. Ask for one when you book.

Should I tell my child exactly what will happen?

Yes, in simple, true words. Avoid promising "it won't hurt"; say what they will see, hear and feel, as the story does.

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All social stories

We read the best free examples and guidance we could find, then wrote a shorter, simpler version in our own words: Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust: dental clinic social story; Autism Spectrum Australia: Hayden goes to the dentist. Not medical advice; if you are worried about your child, talk to their school or doctor.