Candy canes, chocolate bars, and peanut brittle are some of the most common stocking stuffers. Unfortunately, the high sugar content can result in significant tooth decay, which isn’t ideal, especially following sugar-filled holidays like Halloween and Thanksgiving. The good news is that there are gifts that are thoughtful, affordable, and smile-friendly! Here are six stocking stuffers that are dentist-approved.
1. Flavored Toothpaste
Does your loved one always use the same peppermint or spearmint flavor? Then switch things up with a fun flavor instead! With options like bubble gum, watermelon, and apple, you can even tailor this gift to their unique taste. Just make sure the toothpaste you select is ADA-approved!
2. A New Toothbrush
At first, a new toothbrush may seem like a pair of socks… not that exciting. However, they have toothbrushes now with popular characters like Thor and Elmo, which can help encourage the little ones in your life to take care of their teeth. Plus, a new electric toothbrush is a great gift for a significant other or parent!
3. Reusable Straws
Does the person you’re shopping for love starting their morning with a cup of coffee? Do they enjoy sipping on a fizzy soda during the afternoon slump? Do they enjoy winding down in the evening with a glass of wine? Then give them a pack of reusable straws so they can protect their teeth from stains and enamel erosion in the process!
4. Sugar-Free Gum
Sugar-free gum is a great gift because it helps fight bad breath and stimulates saliva production. Fortunately, there’s just about every flavor under the sun available online, and you can always go to your local store or pharmacy if you’re in a pinch!
5. Dark Chocolate
If your friend, significant other, or family member has a sweet tooth, consider gifting them dark chocolate instead! It’s loaded with antioxidants, it’s low in added sugar, and it doesn’t cling to the teeth like other candy bars do.
6. A Gift Card
Gift cards are always a great stocking stuffer because they are small in size but big in thoughtfulness. Has your partner been talking about getting their teeth whitened? Consider covering the cost (or a portion of the cost) of their smile transformation! Have your parents been wanting to try a coffee shop that just opened near their house? Pay for their next cup of coffee!
About the Practice
Dr. Batson and Dr. Abe are the two exceptional dentists leading our top-rated team at Columbia Healthy Smiles. Part of their patient care philosophy is being a resource for all things oral health – from answering questions about how to prevent cavities to providing thorough checkups and cleanings. So, if it’s been more than six months since your last visit to our Columbia dental office, don’t hesitate to visit our website or call (573) 875-7071.