Million Dollar Smile
Lisa Marie Negele
language
(, March 31, 2011)
Proper dental care is a crucial lesson for children. They must be encouraged to brush and floss regularly and to avoid eating too many sweet, sugary foods. Yet it is not always easy for parents to convince their kids to adopt good dental habits.By reading this captivating story about a young kitten's concern over a loose tooth, parents can teach their children the basics of proper dental care. In this tale, Opal is troubled by a loose tooth.She frets that losing her tooth will jeopardize her future aspirations of becoming a model. As she is in the process of going to extreme and comical lengths to retain her loose tooth, a young pup named Jag sees her.He interrupts Opal to ask what she is doing. When she explains her objective, Jag tell her she is behaving foolishly. He then jokingly offers to remove his collar and use it as a rope to pull her loose tooth out.Opal is completely appalled by Jag's suggestion and her reaction attracts the attention of another canine companion, Rocky. Rocky then joins his pals to offer his assistance.While Opal emotionally tries to communicate her woes to Rocky, Jag interjects his opinon that she is behaving irrationally. Rocky soothingly advises Opal that her concerns are indeed misplaced and that losing a tooth is natural. He further assures her that a new, permanent tooth will grow and replace the missing one.Rocky even offers to prove the veracity of his statements to a still uncertain Opal. He persuades Opal and Jag to accompany him to his house where he presents them with a photo album.The album contains a photograph of Rocky with a missing tooth. He explains that a new tooth grew and replaced the one the picture shows he lost.While his friends listen, Rocky elaborates that, since his new tooth is permanent, he is always certain to brush and floss carefully. He also explains that a healthy diet is important and too many sugary foods are bad for your teeth.Jag concurs with Rocky and shares a little song he made up to remind himself to properly care for his teeth and gums. The two boys are so convincing that Opal is excited to lose her tooth and have a new, permanent one grow in its place.Reading this book to your children will help communicate the importance of good oral hygiene. When they learn to care for their teeth and gums every day through brushing, flossing and a healthy diet, they are establishing habits that they will retain throughout their lives.Children ages 2 to 10 will find this story enchanting and entertaining. Read it at bedtime, naptime or any time!