The gift of a healthy smile
Tooth-friendly gift ideas for friends and family
Don’t let oral health go out the window when the holidays come around. Eating foods that are high in sugar can result in tooth decay and cavities without proper oral care. Check out these great gift ideas to keep your friends and family smiling all winter long.
Stocking stuffers
Instead of traditional stocking stuffers like candy, try these dentist-approved presents:
- Peppermint- or cinnamon-flavored floss—Waxed floss may be easier to slide through tight teeth, while unwaxed floss will spread out its fibers during use for greater tooth contact. For a special treat, give holiday-flavored floss.
- Sugar-free gum or mints—Acidic foods and drinks can have a detrimental effect on tooth enamel. Chewing sugar-free gum after meals and snacks helps to reduce the acid level in the mouth and can stimulate the flow of saliva, which cleanses the mouth, especially at times when brushing is impractical. Instead of gum with added sugar, give out brands that include xylitol, an artificial sweetener shown to reduce cavities.
- Flavored fluoride toothpaste, such as chocolate, vanilla, strawberry, orange and bubblegum
- Bottle opener or pocket scissors, to avoid using teeth as tools
- Green tea, a healthy drink that won’t stain teeth
Toothbrush fun
Brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste is an effective strategy for fighting tooth decay. Removing plaque left by holiday sweets will help prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
Today’s toothbrushes have something to offer everyone on your gift list:
- The minimalist: A basic toothbrush and floss can be a welcome gift for anyone who’s on a budget or living in cramped quarters. Dental floss's small size makes it a great stocking stuffer. While a toothbrush is effective in cleaning tooth surfaces, the bristles cannot adequately clean between the teeth. Dental floss will help remove food from hard-to-reach areas.
- The frequent traveler: Got someone on your list who’s always on the go? A toothbrush and several pocket-sized tubes of toothpaste in a decorative travel case can go a long way.
- The rock star: Would your little one rather blast music than plaque from her teeth? New “singing” electric toothbrushes help make brushing fun.
- The gadget lover: New electric toothbrushes include a range of high-tech features – from sonic vibrations to brush-tracking software. Electric toothbrushes come with vibrating, oscillating or sonic brush heads, and the basic models can be fairly inexpensive. They're great gifts for the tech lovers in your life!
- Children (and kids at heart): Know someone with a favorite cartoon or superhero? Try a novelty toothbrush for a personalized present.
Whichever brush you choose, remember to opt for one with soft, rounded bristles to avoid damaging gums.
This information provided by Delta Dental Insurance, the administrator of the State of Texas Dental Choice PlanSM PPO and DeltaCare® USA DHMO. While your dental plan doesn’t cover everyday items like toothbrushes, toothpaste and floss, it does cover two routine exams and cleanings per calendar year. Coverage is available for diagnostic and preventive services, basic services, major services and orthodontic services.