Photo by Dan LeFebvre on Unsplash
Candy and sugary treats are common stocking stuffers for kids. However, this year, we invite you to include stocking stuffers that are good for their teeth! There are plenty of options that your kiddos will think are fun and exciting. For example:
- Zolli® Candy
- Teeth Candy Molds
- Sugar-Free Gum
- Electric Toothbrush
- Character or Animal Toothbrush Holder
You can find Zollipops®, Zolli® Drops, and Zaffi® Taffy in the oral care aisle or the sugar-free candy section of many retail locations. Unlike traditional candy, these tasty treats are sweetened with xylitol, erythritol, and other natural flavors instead of sugar. These healthy, sugar-free candies were invented by a seven-year old kidpreneur named Alina Morse. The assorted fruit flavors are sure to please even the pickiest child! Choose from orange, grape, strawberry, raspberry, cherry, and pineapple, and even peppermint in the Zolli Drops, which are like lollipops without the stick. They can be enjoyed by all kids older than three years old because they are keto-friendly, diabetic-friendly, nut-free, gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan. Plus, they don’t contain any artificial ingredients or GMOs.
With teeth candy molds, not only will your child enjoy a treat at the end but you get to spend quality time together in the kitchen. The possibilities are nearly endless! Make homemade popsicles by freezing low-sugar yogurt or a smoothie with popsicle sticks, or whip up a batch of sugar-free jello or gummies.
For older kids, sugar-free gum is a tasty treat that is safe for their teeth. Chewing on sugar-free gum helps to freshen breath, pull out food particles trapped in between teeth, and stimulate the production of saliva, which is the mouth’s natural rinse. When shopping, keep in mind that many kids will find fruit-flavored gum, like watermelon, more appealing than mint-flavored gum.
Kids are often able to clean their teeth better with an electric toothbrush since it takes over much of the “hard work” of brushing. Find one with your child’s favorite cartoon character, which will encourage more excitement about brushing, and a two-minute timer to ensure your little one brushes for long enough.
Choose between frogs, pandas, pigs, ducks, dinosaurs, and more to store your child’s toothbrush. Your child will find it fun that their favorite animal or cartoon character is there to help them brush every morning and night. Moreover, a toothbrush is best stored upright so it can dry out between uses, reducing the chance of bacterial growth.
How to Keep Your Child’s Smile Merry & Bright
Helping your child achieve and maintain a healthy smile is a gift that will last a lifetime. Teach your child to brush their teeth twice a day for two minutes each time, floss at least once a day, drink plenty of water, and eat a balanced diet. Additionally, bring them to visit us at Children’s Dentistry of Knoxville every six months for a cleaning and checkup. Contact us to schedule their next appointment!
