Do you usually fill your loved ones’ stockings with peppermint bark, cheesy popcorn, chocolate bars, and other sweet treats? While their taste buds may love it, their teeth certainly don’t. Since foods and drinks that are packed with sugar are a recipe for tooth decay, it’s a good idea to opt for smile-friendly stocking stuffers instead. Read on for a few examples!
1. A Trendy Water Bottle
Yes, there IS such a thing as a trendy water bottle! Hydro Flask is one example of an award-winning company that is in demand for their innovative design and functionality. However, many popular brands, like lululemon, also sell stylish water bottles. The great news is that you can tailor this gift to anyone in your life. For example, you can get one with your niece or nephew’s favorite character or get one that stays cold for your cousin who works outside in the intense summer heat.
2. Fun Flavored Toothpaste
Many people go on autopilot and just get the same, standard toothpaste each time they go to the store. But who said this oral hygiene essential has to be boring? Cinnamon-flavored varieties are a great option, especially around the holidays. Of course, you can also have some fun with this gift and pick a “weird” one, like bacon-flavored toothpaste!
3. Sugar-Free Gum
Sugar-free gum is a stocking stuffer for three reasons: it’s small in size, it’s affordable, and it comes in a wide range of flavors. Plus, there is always the added benefit that it can help prevent tooth decay! In the times where brushing and flossing isn’t realistic (like while eating breakfast on the way to work or school), your loved one can chew on a piece of sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva production and rinse away food particles until they have a chance to complete their oral hygiene regimen.
4. Healthy Snacks
Don’t worry – even though festive treats like peppermint bark might be off the table, there are other delicious goodies you can add to your loved ones’ stockings. Trail mix (ideally one that’s low in added sugar), air-popped popcorn, and veggie chips are all snacks that their teeth and their tastebuds will love!
5. A New Toothbrush
According to the American Dental Association, toothbrushes should be replaced every three to four months. So, while a toothbrush may not be exactly what your loved ones want, it’s certainly something they need! If you really want to go all out, you can give them a new electric toothbrush to upgrade their oral hygiene regimen. These alternatives are also beneficial because they come with built-in timers and the replacement bristles can be automatically delivered every quarter!
About the Author
Since Dr. Gregory Palmer’s father and grandfather were both doctors, his interest in caring for others was piqued at a young age. He ultimately chose to earn his undergraduate degree from Saint Edwards University and his dental doctorate from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. Now, he is proud to use his extensive education, advanced training, and passion for dentistry to help patients in and around Houston smile! If you want to learn more about how to prevent cavities around the holidays or you’d like to schedule an appointment, don’t hesitate to visit our website or call (713) 221-7398.