Every year you fill your family’s stockings with the usual gadgets and candies. Take your gift giving up a notch this year by taking advantage of the perfect opportunity to sneak in that practical gift. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to the usual candies and other edible goodies, we have the ultimate guide for you.

Why not get creative this year? Skip the candy store, and try these 8 healthy alternatives instead.

Cavity-Fighting Gum Sweetened With Xylitol

Instead of candy canes or chocolate bars, try stuffing your child’s stocking with something that tastes great AND cleans teeth. Chewing sugar-free Xylitol gum is beneficial to your teeth because Xylitol stimulates saliva production. Saliva works to clean teeth naturally by clearing debris that can build up and lead to tooth decay. Saliva is also very high in calcium, and can help strengthen enamel – the first line of defense against cavities! Gum containing Xylitol has been proven to help reduce cavities, making it a must-have stocking stuffer for the entire family.

Dark Chocolate

Yes, chocolate can be good for your teeth! With the recent findings, it’s now more valid than ever, that chocolate is a superfood for your teeth. While it should still be enjoyed in moderation, chocolate is far better for your teeth than other candy options that are sticky, gooey, or chewy. For an added health benefit, stick to darker varieties with higher cocoa percentages.

Floss Threader

Flossing with braces can be difficult. If you have a child who is going through orthodontic treatment, a floss threader is a perfect stocking-stuffer for them. Floss threaders are tools that were created to help orthodontic patients be able to floss more efficiently and more effectively. These threaders typically come in a small pack, making them the perfect little item to slip into a stocking.

Electric Toothbrush

Anyone who has been using a manual toothbrush for ages will surely appreciate upgrading to an electric toothbrush. Using advanced technology, electric toothbrushes can remove plaque faster and more efficiently than is possible by brushing with a manual toothbrush.

Manual Toothbrush

Regardless of the type of toothbrush you have, it should be replaced every 3-4 months, making a new toothbrush the perfect addition to any stocking. Make brushing fun for children with themed brushes with their favorite cartoon character. Regardless of age, always ensure you look for a soft-bristled toothbrush.

Dental Treatment Certificate

Specific services such as laser whitening or a dental hygiene service are affordable and completed in a single visit. A gift voucher for a dental treatment makes a trip to the dentist less stressful for patients with dental anxiety. A dental treatment certificate makes a great gift for the college student in your life, or for everyone in the family!

Whitening Kit

Give the gift of a white Christmas regardless of your geographical location. Consider giving the gift of an at-home teeth whitening kit. At-home whitening kits are effective if used correctly and can brighten teeth significantly in just a week or two. For anyone wanting to perfect their appearance (and who isn’t?), a whitening kit is the perfect stocking stuffer. Ask your dentist which whitening kit they recommend for a professional touch.

Waterpik

A water flosser takes out the hassle of using string floss while still effectively cleaning between your teeth. These high-tech tools use water pressure to remove unwanted food debris and plaque from the mouth and between your teeth. Not only will it help to leave the mouth feeling fresh and clean, but it also makes flossing more exciting.

Sugary Treats in Moderation

We always suggest balancing out some of the candy and tiny treats that always seem to find their way into stockings with mouth-healthy options. Sugary treats are still best in moderation and small portions. Remember to brush your teeth twice per day and floss once per day, to help prevent tooth decay. Hinsdale Dentistry wishes your family a happy and healthy holiday season, and we look forward to seeing you at your first cleaning and exam in 2019.