‘Tis the season for snow, Santa, and lots of sweets. In this blog post, we’ll list some tooth-friendly stocking stuffers and gifts to ring in the New Year that your family will love–especially if they’ve been sneaking the occasional sugar cookie.
1. Travel-Sized Basics
Have an avid traveler in the family? It’s always great to have items like mini tubes of toothpaste or travel toothbrush covers on hand for that upcoming vacation. Hit up your pharmacy’s travel-size section and load up on these essential–and adorable–mini oral hygiene products.
2. Kid-Friendly Themed Products
Delight your child with a toothbrush or tube of toothpaste featuring their favorite movie or cartoon character. While dental care might seem like a chore to the little ones, a Star Wars or Crayola themed toothbrush can make brushing something to look forward to.
3. Novelty Dental Products
Have a little fun with a silly dental-themed product that’ll make your recipient giggle. There are plenty of novelty items and gag gifts out there with a toothy theme, such as bacon-flavored toothpaste, tooth-shaped succulent planters, and denture-shaped ice cube trays. These gifts are just for fun, but they also pair well with a fresh, new toothbrush.
4. Doggie Dental Chews
Does your furry friend have a stocking? Fill it up with tasty dental chew treats that’ll give your pet’s teeth a good clean. We recommend brushing your pet’s teeth every day and supplementing with a dental treat, but be sure to look for a chew clinically proven to break up plaque and tartar to ensure optimal oral health.
5. Skip the Candy
It’s tempting to pack your family’s stockings full of holiday-themed candy. But don’t do it! While the occasional sugary indulgence during the holidays is okay, moderation is key. Plus, classic holiday candies like peppermints and candy canes are hard and can be dangerous to the teeth. Stick with minty sugar-free gum–without the sugar, decay’s not a concern, and the act of chewing gum actually helps clean the teeth. And you still get that refreshing mint flavor. Or, there are plenty of fruity flavors for your loved ones with an insatiable sweet tooth. However, if you really want to get someone candy, stick with dark chocolate.
See You in 2021!
When the stockings have been unstuffed and the gifts unwrapped, it’s time to make your New Year’s resolutions. Here’s an easy one: to keep up with your dental health routine every day and come see us for your biannual cleaning and exam before the first half of the year is up. We at Paradigm Dental Austin TX look forward to helping you have a smile that is merry and bright all year long! Contact us today to schedule your next appointment.