The holidays are almost here! As you hang up twinkling lights around the house, bake gingerbread cookies, and shop for gifts for your loved ones, you also have to think about the presents you’re going to put in your child’s stocking this year. Unfortunately, many parents simply fill stockings with candy, increasing the risk that their kids are going to start out the new year with a mouth full of cavities. A family dentist in Center has ideas for five mouth-healthy stocking stuffers that won’t wreak havoc on your child’s smile.
Brand-New Toothbrushes
What better time of year to give your son or daughter a new toothbrush than the gift-giving season? There is no shortage of sugary sweets to be found at this time of year, putting your child’s teeth at risk for decay. This is a great opportunity to teach them about proper brushing habits. Pick out a toothbrush that features their favorite color or cartoon character. You could even select one that plays a catchy song to get your little one excited about cleaning their teeth.
Yummy Dental Products
A toothbrush isn’t the only thing your child needs to keep their mouth healthy. Toothpaste and floss both come in plenty of fun, kid-friendly flavors. If the typical minty flavor of most toothpastes is too much for your child to handle, choose an interesting flavor, like orange or cherry, instead. Just be sure that the oral care products you choose have the ADA Seal of Approval.
Sugar-Free Treats
Your little one doesn’t have to go through a holiday season without yummy sweets. Rather than choosing sugary candies that will stick to their teeth and lead to cavities, buy some sugar-free gum or sugarless lollipops. They will not only not cause cavities, but promote saliva production that keeps your child’s smile clean.
Mouth-Healthy Snacks
Not all holiday snacks are bad for your young one’s oral health. Instead of starchy items like chips or crackers, throw in some string cheese, yogurts, and high-fiber fruits like pears and apples. These foods have all kinds of benefits for your child’s growing smile!
Children’s Books
There are all sorts of books out there that encourage kids to take care of their teeth. Plus, reading is wonderful for your child’s development. Find short picture books about brushing techniques, seeing the dentist, or the tooth fairy.
Your kid’s smile doesn’t have to suffer this holiday season. Try these stocking stuffer suggestions from your dentist in Center so they can ring in the new year cavity-free!
About the Practice
At Family Dental Center of East Texas, we have a children’s dentist and a family dentist using their expertise to treat smiles of all ages. Dr. Thomas Youngblood earned his DDS from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio Dental School. Dr. Mireya Martinez graduated from the Texas A&M College of Dentistry. They are both members of the American Dental Association and the Texas Dental Association. For more information on keeping your child’s smile bright this holiday season, visit their website or call (936) 427-9070.