The holiday season is just around the corner, and you might be wondering how you’re going to bring a smile to your child’s face this year! If they have braces, this might be a little tricky. What can you put under the tree or in their stocking that won’t hinder their orthodontic journey, but will also make them light up with joy? Here are four awesome, braces-friendly stocking stuffer ideas that are certain to make your child happy.
1. Electric Toothbrush
While a toothbrush may not seem quite as exciting as other potential gifts for your youngster, the usefulness of a good toothbrush cannot be understated. When used correctly, electric toothbrushes tend to clean teeth more effectively than their manual counterparts. Plus, they come in all sorts of fun colors and themes that kids will love. If kids love their brush, they might be more inclined to use it after each meal!
2. Refillable Water Bottle
Water is the best beverage for one’s oral health. Water has none of the sugars and acids found in drinks like coffee, soda, juice, and more. It also stimulates the mouth’s production of saliva, which is crucial in the ongoing fight against tooth decay and gum disease. That said, providing a water bottle for your kid with braces is a wise move, since it arms them with another means of cavity-prevention. What’s better is that these bottles come in all sorts of colors, designs, and sizes, meaning there’s bound to be one out there that your child will feel excited about carrying around.
3. Sugar-Free Candy
Candy is perhaps the most iconic of all stocking stuffers, and your child might be a little disappointed if they went the whole holiday season without getting any of their favorite sweets. However, you should consider filling their stocking with sugar-free varieties or low-sugar alternatives, like dark chocolate or peanut butter cups, to lower their risk of cavities. You should also avoid any types of candy that might damage your child’s braces. Avoid hard items like lollipops and jawbreakers, and chewy/sticky items like gummies or taffy.
4. Braces Travel Kit
Another excellent, and practical, gift idea for kids with braces is a portable braces kit that they can take with them whenever they leave home. This will ensure their orthodontic journey can always be kept on track! They come in all sorts of colors and themes, and you can 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 Practice
The team at Grayslake Orthodontics has assisted families in the Grayslake area for years under the leadership of Dr. Ben Youel, offering a wide range of orthodontic services. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with the team to arrange an appointment, feel free to reach out online or over the phone for additional information or assistance. Telephone: (847) 548-4330.
Meet Dr. Ben Youel
Dr. Ben Youel, affectionately called “Dr. Ben” by his patients, has proudly served the dental needs of the Grayslake community for several years. He received his dental doctorate from the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Dentistry and is a member of numerous professional dental organizations, including the American Dental Association and the Chicago Dental Society. Nothing makes him happier than helping children and adults alike realize and achieve their dream smiles!
