With the holidays coming up, you may be getting a list from your child about big-ticket items they want for the festive season. You may be tracking down and securing those gifts before they sell out, but what should you do about their stocking? It’s normal to fill them with small treats like candy canes and other sweets, but these may not be the best for your loved one if they have braces. Instead, consider filling it with these three options.
1.) Fun Dental Essentials
Cavities and other oral health issues are more likely to occur in kids who have braces. That’s because it can be hard to clean between every individual bracket and wire, so you can use this season as an opportunity to get them the essentials they need!
An electric toothbrush is a great option as it helps your child avoid developing dental decay. There are many options out there that have built-in timers and pressure sensors, so they can brush for the full two minutes without being too aggressive about it. Pair it with colorful floss and the respective threaders, and they may feel more encouraged to do this part of their oral hygiene.
2.) Games, Books, and Puzzles
In the age of technology, you may be stuck on finding ways to get your loved one off their screen. Some ways you can entice them are by giving them card or board games, books, and puzzles that speak to their individual interests! By tailoring it to what they love, they might be more likely to pick them up than their device. You can also do the activity with them. For some kids, doing it with their parents is worth more than scrolling online!
3.) Gift Cards or Concert Tickets
Rather than filling your child’s stocking with sweets and candies, you can give them experiences! Give them gift cards to their favorite stores or local movie theater, then they can use them on stuff they want. They might be able to buy that piece of clothing they had their eye on or enjoy the big screen with friends or family.
Concert tickets to their favorite artist are also great options you can try out! In the moment, they’ll get a rush of excitement at being able to see their idol in the future, but that feeling will only build up to creating memories they won’t want to forget. That way, you help them avoid any issues while they have braces, while keeping this season fun and festive.
About the Practice
At Happy Teeth Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, your loved one benefits from a skilled team of pediatric dentists. We are happy to help the kids in the Levittown community get the straight smiles that set them up for success in the future. With a board-certified orthodontist on staff, you can trust that your child gets expert care throughout their braces journey. If your child ends up breaking a bracket during the holidays, schedule an appointment or call our office at (267) 580-9657.