Do you usually fill your loved ones’ stockings with peppermint bark, caramel-filled treats, and other candies? While these are certainly delicious, they can also result in a mouthful of cavities if eaten in excess. Since you don’t want your friends and family to start the new year with a bunch of dental work, it’s worth considering some dentist-approved alternatives. With this in mind, keep reading to learn a few smile-friendly stocking stuffer ideas.
1. An Electric Toothbrush
Is someone on your list still using a manual toothbrush? Then the perfect smile-friendly stocking stuffer is easy: an electric toothbrush! This tool can provide a deeper clean, helping your loved one fight off decay even if they do have a few too many pieces of candy this holiday season.
2. Sugar-Free Gum & Candy
Fortunately, sugar-free candy has come a long way over the past few years. Now, there are plenty of options that taste pretty darn close to the original. You can also wrap a few packs of sugar-free gum in your loved ones’ stockings. Not only are they delicious, but they can actually help prevent oral health problems like cavities and gum disease!
3. Fun Oral Hygiene Tools
Unfortunately, many people have adopted the belief that oral hygiene has to be boring. With plain toothpaste, standard floss, and traditional mouthwash, it’s not hard to see why! The good news is that there are countless “fun” dental care tools that can actually make the process of brushing and flossing considerably more enjoyable. Cinnamon-flavored toothpaste and pink floss are great places to start.
4. Small Gifts
There are also smile-friendly stocking stuffers that have nothing to do with oral hygiene. Gift cards are a great example of that! To add a little extra holiday spirit, you can get a beautiful box to put it in or cover it with festive wrapping paper.
The above stocking stuffer ideas are great because they are smile-friendly and something your loved ones will genuinely enjoy. If you need more ideas on gift ideas that don’t result in cavities, don’t hesitate to talk to your dentist!
About the Practice
Dr. Bryan Villescas’ interest in the field of dentistry inspired him to pursue his education at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine. Passionate about continuing education, he has completed advanced training with professional organizations like the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, Spear Education, and the Academy of General Dentistry. As a result, he has experience with everything from surgical treatment planning and sinus augmentation to implant placement and tissue/bone grafting. If you want to learn more about how to keep the smiles of you and your loved ones healthy throughout the holiday season, don’t hesitate to visit his website or call (941) 627-9900.