5 Holiday Gifts That Promote Oral Health: Perfect Stocking Stuffers for Everyone

No matter how young or old you are, the gift of good oral health is always appropriate. There are lots of wonderful holiday stocking stuffers that can add a bit of dazzle to your loved ones’ smiles while protecting their teeth and gums.

Electric or Battery-Powered Toothbrush

Who doesn’t love a new electronic or battery-operated toy? Combine it with something useful that makes a daily task more enjoyable, and you’ve got a definite winner. Electric or battery-operated toothbrushes are more effective than manual toothbrushes at  getting between teeth and polishing surfaces. Their oscillating heads are up to 21% more effective at removing plaque buildup and are more consistent, particularly for cleaning hard-to-reach areas. They are ideal for anyone with limited mobility as well.

Sugar-Free Gum or Treats with Xylitol

Yes, you can actually give the kids some holiday sweets or gum that won’t hurt their teeth! Look for sugar-free gum or candy that contains xylitol, which prevents decay-causing bacteria from sticking to teeth and feeding on sugars. It also neutralizes pH, reducing acid attacks and enamel damage. It even stimulates saliva production to wash away food debris and aid in enamel repair.

One word of caution – keep xylitol away from pets! Xylitol is especially toxic for dogs, so be sure to keep it out of reach.

Whitening or Fluoride Toothpaste

It’s easy to tuck a tube of whitening toothpaste into stockings so the adults can brush up after those holiday meals. Look for those with the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of approval. Active whitening ingredients should be non-abrasive, such as hydrogen peroxide, rather than charcoal, which can damage enamel.

For children under 14, choose a fluoride toothpaste in a flavor they’ll enjoy. Whitening toothpastes aren’t a good choice for children because their enamel is still hardening and isn’t fully developed. You can find good fluoride toothpastes for children in flavors like bubblegum and cherry that may get them more interested in brushing for a while.

Tongue Scraper

Using a tongue scraper is so easy and beneficial; we are often amazed by how few people are aware of their benefits. Gently scraping your tongue when brushing your teeth freshens your breath, improves your ability to taste foods properly, and enhances the appearance of your tongue. It also reduces bacteria in the mouth, helping prevent plaque buildup on teeth and reducing the risk of cavities.

Tuck a few oral-health-promoting gifts into stockings or under the tree to show you care. A healthy mouth supports your immune system and overall health. Scheduling family dental checkups is also a great way to start the New Year!