With the holidays just around the corner, it’s only natural to expect that lots of sweet and sugary foods will be consumed. And although a little sweet here and there won’t necessarily harm your children, if not properly monitored, all those sugar-filled treats can wreak havoc on their teeth. That’s why this time of year is perfect for teaching your kids how to balance festive treats and healthy teeth by reinforcing healthy oral habits and practicing what you preach when you distribute snacks to others.
Monitor Candy Time
You don’t have to deny your children their holiday treats; you can simply monitor their sweet time instead. Arrange a time each evening after school when they can have a treat or piece of pie, and only if they promise to brush their teeth afterward. When they’re brushing, remind them why it’s important to clean their teeth when they have chocolate or sugary items. Not only will they learn why sugar moderation is crucial but they will get used to practicing proper dental care after snack time.
Mix in Healthy Lunch Snacks
When your kids are at school and not under your watchful eye, it’s hard to tell if they are getting more candy from their friends. So only pack one treat in their lunchbox along with some other healthier veggies like carrots and cucumber to balance out the sugar content.
Get New and Fun Dental Supplies
There’s no better time than now to allow your kids to pick out a new toothbrush and toothpaste with their favourite festive cartoon characters like Frosty and Rudolph. Using this festive time as an opportunity to promote dental care as something fun and exciting can get your kids more enthusiastic about taking care of their oral health.
Provide Healthier Treats
When hosting parties or attending others, you can make apps and treats that aren’t packed with sugar but use healthier, alternative ingredients instead, like honey or stevia. And don’t forget about the fruit! It’s a perfect way to serve something that provides a natural, delicious sweetness that we all love.
Avoid Toffee and Caramel
The longer the candy stays in the mouth, the more likely it is to produce bacteria, which can result in tooth decay and cavities. Plus, sticky candy can damage teeth and fillings. Avoid purchasing chocolates with toffee and caramel centers.
You don’t have to be the bad guy during the holidays; you can let your kids have their festive treats and maintain healthy teeth too. With a little monitoring and education, you can ensure to keep the fun to a maximum and the tooth decay to a minimum.
