If you’re looking around online for last-minute stocking stuffer ideas, you’ll quickly realize that the most common recommendations are packed with sugar (i.e., peppermint bark, peanut brittle, candy canes). The good news is that there are also plenty of smile-friendly stocking stuffer ideas as well. Here are a few that your loved ones will enjoy and will benefit their oral health!
1. A New Toothbrush
At first, this might not seem like a thoughtful gift. However, the large majority of patients forget to replace their toothbrush every quarter, so this present can help give your loved one a healthy smile. Plus, you can easily tailor it to the person you’re shopping for. For example, if it’s your niece or nephew, find one with their favorite character!
2. A Unique-Flavored Toothpaste
Odds are the person you’re shopping for just grabs the same old toothpaste flavor, like spearmint, when at the store. However, there are lots of unique flavors available, like bubblegum, strawberry, and bacon! Just make sure to check that the one you buy is ADA-approved.
3. Dark Chocolate
If you’re looking for something sweet that isn’t packed with sugar, consider dark chocolate! This treat comes with the added benefit that it’s filled with antioxidants. Of course, you can go with more “traditional” healthy snacks, like raw nuts and raisins as well.
4. Sugar-Free Gum
Although chewing on sugar-free gum isn’t a replacement for brushing, it can prevent food particles from clinging to your teeth. Plus, it’s always good to have a piece or two on-hand when you’re running errands, returning to the office after lunch, or going on a first date. For all these reasons, consider adding a packet of sugar-free gum to your loved one’s stocking!
5. Reusable Straws
From coffee and wine to soda and fruit juice, many delicious drinks are dark in color. As a result, they have the potential to leave behind pigmented, stubborn stains. To prevent that from happening to the people you’re shopping for, add some reusable straws to their stocking!
About the Practice
Leading our team at Aesthetic & Family Dentistry of Washington are two exceptional dentists, Dr. Yelena Obholz and Dr. Nhu Thuy H. Luong. Thanks to their extensive education and advanced training, they can help our patients with all sorts of dental needs – from routine checkups and same-day dental crowns to beautiful veneers. Plus, they are happy to share everything they’ve learned about how to prevent cavities, even during the holiday season. So, if you have a question about your oral health or you’d like to schedule an appointment, visit our website or call (202) 364-8989.