Dr. Himali K. Patel Bhatt (Dental) recently debuted her children’s book, Where Do the Sugar Bugs Hide?, with a lively reading at the UNLV/CSUN Preschool. About 40 curious little ones listened as Dr. Bhatt used her book’s playful storytelling and bright illustrations to show them just how important, easy, and fun brushing and good oral hygiene can be.

The idea for the book first came to Dr. Bhatt back in 2018, during a casual visit to a bookstore on a trip to Oregon. After reading a story that made references to the fear around tooth pain and dentists, Dr. Bhatt felt inspired to create a new, friendlier, more empowering narrative that she had been sharing with her young patients while practicing. With encouragement from her husband, she finally put her long-imagined story and illustrations on paper, turning it into the book she had always hoped to write. As a heartfelt touch, the illustrations feature herself and her kids, bringing the story even closer to home.

Simple, cheerful, and reassuring, Where Do the Sugar Bugs Hide? helps kids understand why we brush, what “sugar bugs” (a.k.a. bacteria) really are, and how taking care of their teeth can be something they feel proud of—not scared of. The book even includes a helpful Tips for Parents page to support families in building healthy habits together.

Dr. Bhatt plans to continue reading throughout the community and is donating copies of her book through local organizations in Las Vegas. Her mission is heartfelt and clear: spread positive dental awareness and empower children everywhere to take charge of their smiles with confidence and a little bit of fun.