Thanksgiving is officially over which means there are no more holidays between us and Christmas. Coffee shops will be inundated with eggnog lattes, grocery stores will be blasting holiday music, and you’re going to have to have to figure out presents. If you have a large family, hopefully you’ve adopted Secret Santa or a White Elephant gift exchange, but if not, you’re going to have to figure out some ideas fast. As adults, what constitutes a good present changes. What once was a lame, like socks, quickly becomes much adored, something we needed but hadn’t thought to buy for ourselves. If you’re searching for gift ideas this holiday season, consider something to help that special person maintain their oral hygiene so they’ll be smiling all year.
What about an Oral Care Subscription?
Subscription boxes or services have made a dramatic reemergence in the past five years. Whether you want to receive a monthly box of Japanese candy, bath bombs, or shampoo, there something out there for just about everyone, including those brushing up on their oral hygiene! There are several subscription services out there that provide mouthwash, toothbrush replacements, and toothpaste. One of the most popular, Quip, provides replacement toothbrush heads every three months, which is the replacement schedule recommended by the American Dental Association.
Don’t Forget Stocking Stuffers!
Even if you don’t plan to purchase a big oral health present, that doesn’t mean you can’t think a little smaller. Everyone could use an extra toothbrush or package of floss, especially near the holidays. With all that sugar and simple starch, there is no more important time to practice oral hygiene. Plaque can harden into tarter within 24-42 hours, which can put your smile at risk. Brushing twice a day and flossing once is your mouth’s first line of defence against cavities and gum disease. If you’re hoping to offer something a little more exciting, consider floss made from coconut fiber, which leaves a tropical aftertaste when you’re done. Just be careful not to go crazy with your toothpaste selection, as some alternative toothpastes can do more harm than good.
What about Professional Teeth Whitening?
With this idea, it’s important to include a caveat. Depending on how well you know the person receiving the gift, offering someone teeth whitening can be taken the wrong way. The truth is, however, that a large portion of the United States is dissatisfied with their smile, especially the shade of their teeth. Though a little risky, teeth whitening could be the perfect gift. Instead consider offering them a gift card to your local dentist. Even if they’re not yet ready to seek out cosmetic dentistry, everyone needs a checkup and cleaning. In fact, the American Dental Association suggests getting a cleaning twice a year, to prevent tartar buildup which can lead to gum disease. Also, regularly seeing a dentist can help you to catch complications before they can advance into something that may costly and painful to treat in the future.
Oral hygiene is incredibly important to everyone. Make your friend or significant other smile this season by getting them a gift for their mouth.
If you are looking for quality general dentistry, please call (910) 392-6060 or email Kuzma Advanced Dentistry today for an appointment with a Wilmington dentist.
