3 Smile-Friendly Stocking Stuffers for Your Family

Your home is decorated for the holidays and your family’s stockings are hung by the fireplace, which means you’re thinking about the perfect gifts for your loved ones. Candy canes, taffy, and other sweet treats are staples of the season, but they can mean bad news for your family’s smiles. The holidays don’t have to come back to haunt their dental health. Here are 3 smile-friendly stocking stuffers everyone in your family will enjoy.

1. Electric Toothbrush 

A healthy smile starts with good oral hygiene. A toothbrush is the most used dental product to combat harmful oral bacteria. However, many people rush through their brushing routine. 

An electric toothbrush can make up for not brushing long enough. It offers more brush strokes per minute than a traditional toothbrush. Not to mention, many come with special features, like a timer or pressure sensor. 

You can find the best toothbrushes for everyone in your home based on their oral health needs. Look for those that have earned the American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance, which means they have been tested for safety and effectiveness.

2. Waterflosser

Tooth decay isn’t the only danger to your family’s dental health. At least 50% of Americans have gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss and increase the risk of various health issues, like heart disease.

Flossing is vital for healthy gums, but traditional floss can be difficult to use, especially for children or those with arthritis in their hands.

A waterflosser is an easy way to clean the most hard-to-reach areas in the mouth, like between the teeth. It emits pressurized water to remove food particles and plaque gently. Flossing will feel like less of a chore to promote healthy gums in your home.

3. Chocolate

If you can’t resist putting a few sweet treats in the stockings hung by the fireplace, choose candy wisely. Candy canes are a seasonal favorite, but they must be held in the mouth to dissolve, which bathes teeth in cavity-causing bacteria. Caramel, taffy, and other sticky candy aren’t any better because they cling to teeth and can be difficult to remove. 

Instead, sneak in a few pieces of chocolate. It doesn’t linger in the mouth for as long as other candy. However, don’t fill up the entire stocking. Limit it to 1 or 2 pieces to keep tooth decay at bay. 

As you gather with friends and loved ones, give them a gift that keeps on giving. Dental-friendly stocking stuffers will support healthy teeth and gums for generations of beautiful smiles.

About Dr. Kevin Shively

Dr. Shively earned his dental degree at the University of Louisville School of Dentistry and has pursued continuing education in advanced care, like endodontics, dental implants, and oral surgery. He strives to help each patient achieve their best smile. If you need a cleaning and checkup before the new year, request an appointment through our website or call us at (806) 425-1542.