The joy of a healthy smile and the inherent brightness of the holiday season don’t have to be mutually exclusive. In fact, you can incorporate both by simply presenting your child with the gift of dental hygiene!
If you’re still looking for small items to place beneath the tree or tuck away in a stocking, here are our recommendations…
- Children’s Electric Toothbrush
Did you know that, according to the Dental Health Foundation, “people who use an electric toothbrush have healthier gums, less tooth decay and also keep their teeth longer, compared with those who use a manual toothbrush”? Particularly for children who are new at or reluctant to brushing their teeth, this is the gift that keeps on giving, as it can help brush away the finer details that your child might miss on their own!
- Oral-B Glide Floss
Flossing can be uncomfortable, especially for young children who are not used to it. That’s why Oral-B’s line of Glide floss can be the perfect stocking stuffer for dental hygiene — the smooth surface is not only easier and more comfortable to wedge between your child’s small teeth, but it’s also shred-resistant and comes in a pleasant minty flavor.
- Toothpaste with Fluoride
Did you know that, when used, fluoride is actually incorporated into the structure of your child’s teeth, thereby protecting them from cavities from the inside-out? But fluoridated water isn’t the only source of fluoride. In fact, using fluoride directly on the surface of the teeth is another way to strengthen their enamel and prevent decay, which is why you should always opt for fluoridated toothpaste. Not sure which brand to grab? Easy, just search for a product with the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of acceptance!
- Retainer Cases
If your child has undergone orthodontic care, there’s a strong possibility that they now wear retainers regularly, if not every night. After all, it’s important to keep their teeth from shifting back out of alignment, which is why caring properly for their retainer is paramount in post-treatment maintenance. But this year, you can help them personalize the process with custom retainers, specially-designed to match their personality!
- 2-Minute Brushing Timer
Practice makes perfect, but most kids don’t have the attention span to count out two full minutes while brushing their teeth… in fact, most adults don’t, either! That’s why purchasing a two-minute brushing timer can be helpful. Not only will your child not have to track the time themself, but you can even use it to play their favorite music as they go.
- A Dentist/Medical Kit
Break the ice before your child’s first visit or encourage their imagination by bringing dentistry to your home! For instance, the Melissa and Doug Dentist Play Set doubles as both a toy and a learning experience for your child, making the transition to their regular dental visits that much more familiar and fun.
In all, the holiday season actually presents the perfect opportunity to incorporate both excitement and merriment into your child’s dental habits and mindset. And if you have further questions about how to help your child learn their way around oral care, it’s time to contact Setzer, Cochran, and Soares Pediatric Dentistry!
We specialize in keeping young smiles bright and healthy, from infanthood through their teenage years. Whether you’re looking for a routine cleaning or their first orthodontic consultation, we can help! Schedule your appointment with our team today by calling (904) 733-7254 (Jacksonville Beach) or (904) 473-0600 (Ponte Vedra).