Holidays – Latest News from Children's Dental Specialties

Gift Ideas: Fun Dentist Approved Books!

Posted on December 10, 2015March 18, 2021

We want children have a more positive view of going to the dentist. Preventing and alleviating the fear associated with dental visits is important in encouraging future overall oral health. Adults who are not afraid to go to the dentist are more likely to keep up with regular visits and be proactive in the care of their teeth. Parents can play a vital role by helping your child not be afraid of the dentist and these six fun books are a terrific way to do that. We’ve included links to Amazon.com for each, but you can find these at any of your other favorite book retailers as well.

The Berenstain Bears Visit the Dentist

Sister Bear watches Dr. Bearson fill Brother Bear’s small cavity. Then it’s her turn in the chair to have a dangling baby tooth removed. An entertaining story for preschoolers of a cheerful and informative visit to a dentist. Read More.

The Crocodile & the Dentist

When Crocodile visits the dentist, both are fearful of the experience, in a humorous, colorfully illustrated story in which everyone ends up intact and regular dental care is encouraged. Read More.

Show Me Your Smile!: A Visit to the Dentist

It’s time for Dora’s checkup at the dentist. Dora explores the dentist’s office, gets her teeth cleaned, and more! She even gets a special treat for being such a good patient! Read More.

What to Expect When You Go to the Dentist

With the help of Angus, the lovable Answer Dog, best-selling author Heidi Murkoff extends a hand to children and parents as they tackle life’s first experiences together.

When you were growing up, chances are visiting the dentist wasn’t your favorite thing to do. Luckily for your child there have been many changes around the dentist’s office since your first visit — changes that have made “opening up wide” a lot less scary and a lot more fun. Read More.

Just Going to the Dentist

Mercer Mayer’s very popular Little Critter is on his way to the dentist. It’s a thorough check-up, complete with dental x-rays. When Dr. Ghum insists on filling a cavity, Little Critter goes through it bravely. The visit is painless to the reader because of Little Critter’s funny, honest way of look at things — including the world of dentistry. Read More.

Look! My Tooth Is Loose!

Every kid looks forward to losing that first wobbly, jiggly, loose baby tooth. But why do we have baby teeth in the first place? And why do they fall out? And, most of all, is pulling teeth really as painful as-well, pulling teeth? From getting and losing their first set of teeth to growing and taking care of their second and last set, kids will learn all about teeth. Read More.

Seven Healthy Teeth Stocking Stuffer Gift Ideas Your Kids Will Love

Posted on December 18, 2014March 18, 2021

Looking for a few last-minute ideas to fill the stockings you’ve hung with care? Here are ideas for a few items that will get little ones excited about taking care of their teeth this coming year!

A New Toothbrush

Everyone loves a new toothbrush. For the holidays, pick one that will get your kids excited about brushing their teeth. There are character brushes, brushes that light up and even brushes that play music while you clean your teeth! Be sure and choose a soft-bristled brush with the appropriate sized head for smaller mouths.

Fun Dental App

Whether your child has their own mobile device or uses yours, there are a ton of new dental apps that make oral care fun and educate kids about dental topics. From educational games like Tiny Dentistand Monster Mouth, to apps that help kids brush for two minutes like Brush DJ, there’s something for everyone. You can purchase the app and simply put a note or card in your child’s stocking or give a gift card for the iTunes store or Google Play.

A Tooth Timer

If brushing the correct amount of time is difficult for your kids, consider getting a small timer to keep in the bathroom. Brushing for two minutes can seem like a long time. A timer can ensure your kids are brushing long enough and can even become a game!

A Wacky Toothpaste Flavor

There are so many fun toothpaste flavors to choose from. Try giving your kids something silly that you wouldn’t usually pick out. There’s bubblegum flavor, chocolate, and even bacon! Look for theADA seal on whatever you buy.

Sugar-Free Chewing Gum With Xylitol

Did you know that chewing gum can actually be good for your teeth? While not a substitute for brushing, sugar-free gum can help in the production of saliva which washes away trapped food particles. Further, gum containing xylitol has actually been proven to help reduce cavities.

Sports Mouthguard

Unfortunately, a lot of kids are playing sports without adequately protecting their teeth. If you have a child who plays an active sport, consider getting a mouthguard for Christmas. Even if they already have one, a fun new color or style can get kids excited about staying in the habit of wearing it.

Silly Toothbrush Holder

There are a lot of fun toothbrush holders out there. We’ve seen ones shaped like super heroes, animals and even rocket ships. Get rid of the boring mug and replace your child’s toothbrush holder with something fun.

5 Tips for Healthy Holiday Smiles

Posted on December 4, 2014March 18, 2021

A season of holiday cheer doesn’t mean a holiday from your family’s dental health. In fact, the change in your schedule and diet means that it is even more essential to be vigilant in maintaining your beautiful smile. Here are five pointers for a healthy mouth during the holidays:

Get up to date on your dental visits before the year is out.

Don’t put off needed visits until you return from visiting family. It’s always a good idea to plan ahead, get an appointment early and take care of your teeth before the rush and hustle of celebrating. Staying up to date will help prevent dental issues from ruining your time away from home by detecting any underlying issues that need to be treated before your leave. Holidays and vacation times are also very busy time in dental offices, so you want to make sure your appointments are scheduled and taken care of sooner rather than later. And don’t forget flex benefits! Many flex pay health care plans require you to spend any accumulated funds before year end.

Make a dental travel kit.

Nearly everything comes in a travel size and we’ve found that the activity of putting together a dental travel kit will encourage great habits while you are away from home. Don’t forget to pack travel sized mouthwash, floss and a toothbrush for everyone in the family. We’re excited about new convenient options as well, such as quick disposable toothbrushes that can be carried for “in-between” brushing on the go. Your kids will love their own dental kit. Help them to pick out a special brush and mini-toothpaste just for their time away.

Protect your toothbrush.

If you’re leaving town for the holidays, you want to make sure that your toothbrush stays covered. Extra handling, luggage and hotel bathrooms provide bacteria extra opportunity to find its way onto your bristles and into your mouth. Several options are available, including covers that are anti-bacterial. A closed cover gives a warm, damp place for bacteria to thrive, so remember to let your toothbrush dry before covering it up.

Watch what you eat.

We are all more likely to indulge in sugary drinks, snacks and desserts during the holidays. We’re also more likely to allow our children to indulge for special occasions. Why not make a conscious decision to eat a bit healthier this year? Instead of just planning your days and family activities around food, look for opportunities for more active fun. You might also decide to pack healthy snacks so that you won’t be tempted to grab a quick treat on the road that may not be good for your teeth.

Keep your routine.

Whatever you decide to eat, don’t forget your regular dental habits. It may be tempting to just go to bed after a long day of family fun, but forgetting your routine could mean no-so-fun dental problems later on. Make brushing and flossing an activity that your family does together. It can be a great opportunity to “de-brief” and discuss the activities of the day or plan for the next.

We wish everyone a great season of love, joy, happiness and healthy smiles!