Is this your child’s first holiday season with braces? From helping them avoid crunchy foods to encouraging them to brush their teeth after each meal and snack, this time of year might look a little different. Don’t worry – that doesn’t mean their presents have to be boring! Read on to learn a few fun braces-friendly ideas for stocking stuffers.
1. Braces Essentials
Interproximal toothbrushes, dental wax, and pre-threaded floss are a few tools that can make life with braces significantly easier. Naturally, they are a great stocking stuffer! You can also include helpful tools like a travel-sized toothbrush and mini toothpaste, which will make cleaning their teeth when they are away from home significantly easier.
2. Fun Oral Hygiene Tools
You might be thinking, “Is there such a thing?” There is! If your child is ready to make the transition from a manual toothbrush to an electric one, then now is a great time to upgrade their oral hygiene regimen. Colorful floss and flavored toothpaste are other fun additions to their dental care routine, making it something they look forward to instead of despise.
3. Sugar-Free Candy
Sugary treats are certainly tasty, but they can significantly increase the chances of your child developing tooth decay, especially if eaten in excess. So, if you want to fill their stocking with dessert, opt for a sugar-free alternative. Otherwise, you can gift them milk or dark chocolate (these don’t cling to their teeth and braces like gummy candies do).
4. A Journal
Journaling is one of the healthiest ways for your child to pour out their thoughts. It’s also a great way to track their progress! They even make journals designed specifically for patients with braces. Some of the pages include places for them to place a recent picture, allowing them to see first-hand how much their smile has changed over the months.
5. Small Gifts
If you don’t want to get your child something related to their orthodontic treatment, that’s okay too! Consider instead filling their stocking with gifts that are smaller in size, like socks, a calendar for 2023, school supplies, or playing cards.
With the above stocking stuffers, your child can have a great holiday season without increasing their chances of sustaining an orthodontic emergency!
About the Practice
Simply Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics is comprised of a team that’s passionate about creating healthy, happy smiles. Every step of the way, we’re here to be a resource for your family, answering any questions you have and sharing all of the tips we have. If you’d like to learn more about navigating the holiday season with braces or you’d like to schedule an appointment, don’t hesitate to visit our website or call (781) 767-7200.