With the temperature dropping and the pretty lights springing around town, you know that the gift-giving season has arrived. Since Christmas is just around the corner, you may be considering getting presents for your family and friends. If you’re uninspired, you might be tempted to go for standard treats like chocolate and candy canes. However, the last thing you’d want is for your loved ones to develop a cavity during the holidays. Read on to learn three teeth-friendly ideas for stocking stuffers and tips for preserving healthy pearly whites!
3 Stocking Stuffers to Get For Your Loved Ones
With any traveling and all the excitement, it can get easy to fall off track with good oral hygiene during the festive season. To protect your loved one’s teeth, here are a few smile-friendly options to gift them:
An Exciting Toothbrush
Most dentists highly recommend replacing your toothbrush every three to four months, so getting a new one for your family members could be a great idea. However, you don’t have to choose the regular products this time around. For children, you can buy one that has their favorite animated character and colors, or one that plays music as they clean their teeth. If it’s for adults, try getting them an electric toothbrush for a fancy and exciting gift that’ll also make it easier to clean their smiles.
Delicious Oral Hygiene Products
While you might like the standard minty dental products, the flavor can sometimes be too strong for others, especially young children. This may even contribute to why they might be reluctant to use them in the first place. To keep them from neglecting their oral health, consider gifting them dental products (like toothpaste, mouthwash, and floss) with alternative flavors, such as strawberry, orange, and bubblegum! Be sure these items contain fluoride and have the ADA Seal of Approval, that way they’re teeth stay safe and protected against cavity-causing bacteria.
Healthy Snack Options
Do your friends and family members like to snack on chips, crackers, chocolate bars, and hard candy throughout the holidays? While these are enjoyable, they can also increase the risk of cavities. Though these treats can be consumed in moderation, you should also get your loved ones healthier alternatives. These can include pretzels, nuts, apples, and even sugar-free gum, which are both tastier and beneficial to oral health.
How to Maintain a Happy & Healthy Smile
Here are a few essential steps for preserving healthy teeth:
- Brush for two full minutes twice a day
- Floss at least once a day or after every meal
- Rinse with mouthwash frequently
- Schedule visits with your dentist every six months for checkups and cleanings
You and your loved ones can make the most of the holiday season without putting your oral health at risk. Keep these few stocking stuffers in mind, and they’ll be able to enjoy a cavity-free smile during Christmas and beyond!
About the Author
Dr. Louis Olberding studied at the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry. He’s a member of numerous organizations like the American Dental Association and the Spear Study Club. He offers a vast collection of high-quality services, including dental checkups/cleanings, periodontal therapy, and fillings. If you’d like to schedule an appointment, visit his website or call 402-488-2325.