Christmas is only a week away, so holiday shopping is more intense than ever. Everywhere you look, people are hustling to buy presents before time runs out! In fact, you may be one of these last-minute shoppers yourself. If you are, your dentist in Harker Heights has a suggestion: add some smile-friendly stocking stuffers to your gift list. These items are not only lovable but will also improve your family’s oral health. For ideas on what kind to get, your local practice has you covered. Here are four gifts that’ll make your loved ones’ smiles white as snow.
Healthy Snacks
However popular holiday sweets are, don’t put too many in your family’s stockings. Treats like chocolates, candy canes, and cookies are filled with tooth-eroding sugar. If your loved ones eat too many of them, they’re likely to suffer tooth decay, cavities, or worse.
This year, change out the sweets and put healthy snacks in the holiday socks instead. The latter foods are just as tasty and can make teeth healthier! Good ones include raisins, nuts, and sugar-free gum.
A Sports Mouthguard
If you have an active child, chances are they like to play sports. In that case, add a mouthguard to their stocking. Since teeth can chip or crack from sports injuries, the item would protect their smile.
Of course, your youngster may already have a mouthguard. Still, you could always get them another in a new color or style. The extra one’s novelty will excite your child about wearing mouthguards in general.
Toothbrushes
You’d be surprised how much a kid can like a new toothbrush. In fact, the right one can be as fun for them as a toy. Given that fact, put a few in the holiday stockings.
When selecting these toothbrushes, find some your children will enjoy using. For example, consider getting one that features their favorite cartoon character. You might also buy a brush that plays music. These and similar models would keep your kids entertained as they develop strong oral hygiene habits.
Flavored Floss or Mouthwash
Not all kids enjoy minty dental products. Therefore, put some floss or mouthwash with different flavors under the tree. Bubblegum, fruit, and other sweet flavors are an exciting change from the standard mint—just make sure they don’t swallow it!
To choose the right flavored mouthwash, ensure the brand has fluoride and the ADA Seal of Approval.
In the end, your holiday gifts can be as good for teeth as they are for fun. As such, buy the ones listed above while you still can — your dentist in Harker Heights would appreciate it!
About the Author
Dr. Angie Lim is a dentist based in Harker Heights, TX, having graduated from Case Western Reserve University’s School of Dental Medicine. She’s also obtained her Access to Baby and Child Dentistry (ABCD) certification. Given this background, her specialties are preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry for all ages, not to mention emergency procedures. Dr. Lim currently practices at Market Heights Family Dental and is reachable on her website and by phone at (254)-699-3565.