Smile-Friendly Stocking Stuffer Ideas for Kids

The holidays are just around the corner! You’ve picked out great gifts for your kids that you know will be a hit this year, but you’re still wondering what smaller presents to put in their stockings. The goal is always to give items that others will love and use, so why not stuff their stockings with gifts that benefit their teeth? Here is a list of smile-friendly gift ideas that your kids and their dentist near Love Field will definitely applaud.

Tooth Brushing Sand Timers

Sometimes, parents have to monitor their kids as the brush to make sure they do it for the right amount of time. These sand timers are a fun way to help make sure your kids are brushing for the recommended 2 minutes. Start out brushing with them so they understand how to use the sand timer. Soon, they’ll be brushing for the right amount of time all by themselves!

Xylitol-Sweetened Gum

Trade out candy canes and chocolate for xylitol-sweetened gum this holiday season. Xylitol is an aspartame-free, sugar-free sweetener that helps prevent plaque buildup and fight tooth decay while stimulating saliva production. This gum comes in a variety of flavors, including cinnamon, fresh fruit, chocolate mint and more!

A New Toothbrush

Whether it is manual or electric, a fun new toothbrush is sure to get your child excited about brushing their teeth. Singing toothbrushes or brushes with their favorite cartoon or superhero on them are often a hit!

Flavored Dental Items

Minty dental items can be boring for kids. Fruity, sweet-flavored floss, toothpaste and mouthwash can make an average dental routine fun, as long as they don’t swallow it! Make sure that whichever items you select contain fluoride and have the ADA stamp of approval. If you are teaching a toddler to take care of their teeth, consult your dentist when choosing toothpaste. If your child is under the age of 6, skip the mouthwash.

Dental Books

Small dental care books like Dr. Seuss’s “The Tooth Book” or “The Tooth Book: A Guide to Healthy Teeth and Gums” by Edward Miller are great for small children. These books make learning about how to care for their own teeth fun. 

These stocking stuffer ideas are far from boring and will help make your child’s smile even brighter! By giving the gift of good oral hygiene, you will be teaching your children healthy habits at an early age that will stay with them forever.

About the Practice

The pediatric dentists at Bear Creek Family Dentistry take time to make all of their patients feel comfortable. Services include dental sealants that can protect your child’s teeth from tartar, plaque and bacteria, tooth-colored fillings and more. Don’t wait until the new year to schedule your child’s next dental appointment. Contact the office at (214)350-5333 or visit the website to schedule a visit today!