The holiday season is right around the corner, and you might be wondering how to put a smile on your child’s face this year—and if they have metal braces, you might be thinking extra hard about what you can put under the tree or in their stocking that won’t jeopardize their orthodontic journey. Here are four awesome, braces-friendly stocking stuffer ideas that are certain to bring a smile to your little one’s face!
#1. Electric Toothbrush
While a toothbrush might not be the most exciting thing in the world to unwrap, there are few doubts that these tools are both affordable and practical, making them an excellent stocking stuffer. Electric toothbrushes have been proven to clean teeth more effectively than their manual counterparts, not to mention, they are gentler on the teeth and gums. As an added bonus, they come in all sorts of fun colors and themes, meaning there’s certain to be a brush out there that your child will feel excited about using!
#2. Sugar-Free, Braces-Friendly Candy
Your child might be disappointed if they went the entire holiday season without getting anything sweet, but unfortunately, many of the treats enjoyed this time of year are quite high in sugar and also detrimental to braces. Fortunately, there are a few ways to compromise. You can give them sugar-free or low-sugar alternatives; for instance, dark chocolate usually has lower sugar content than milk chocolate, as do peanut butter cups. Of course, you’ll also want to avoid any types of candy that might harm your child’s braces, regardless of the sugar content—chewy and sticky items like gummies and taffy, as well as particularly hard items like lollipops and jawbreakers, are ill-advised.
#3. Refillable Water Bottle
Water is by far and away the best beverage for one’s oral health; drinking it rinses away lingering food particles inside the mouth, it doesn’t contain any sugar or acids, and it stimulates saliva flow, which helps to prevent cavities. Providing a refillable water bottle for your little one, especially if they have braces, is a wise move. You should encourage them to carry it around with them and sip it throughout the day, for the sake of their smile—and this might be easier if you get them a bottle with a cool design or their favorite character!
#4. Braces Travel Kit
Another practical gift idea for kids with braces is a portable travel kit that they can take anywhere they go, whether it’s a friend’s house for a sleepover or an upcoming family vacation. These kits ensure that they’re able to practice good oral hygiene and care for their braces no matter where they are. They come in all sorts of colors and themes, and you might even throw in some fun-flavored dental floss to ensure that your kiddo isn’t neglecting that important habit after they finish brushing!
About the Author
Dr. Frances Hamman has proudly served patients and families in the Ripon, WI community for several years. Her practice is excited to offer a wide range of orthodontic services for patients of all ages, including traditional braces as well as Invisalign clear aligners. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to schedule an appointment for a loved one, feel free to contact her team through their website or over the phone for additional information or assistance. Telephone: (920) 748-7130.
