Sweet Smiles All Season
HELPING CHILDREN KEEP THEIR TEETH HEALTHY DURING THE HOLIDAYS
By DR. GEMA ISLAND
Island Children’s Dentistry, Board Certified Pediatric Dentist
The holidays are such a special time filled with family gatherings, festive activities, and, of course, plenty of sweet treats! 🍪🍫 From gingerbread cookies and candy canes to rich hot chocolate and holiday baking, this season is full of flavors kids love. And that’s okay! Treats can absolutely be part of the fun, as long as we remember to care for our teeth along the way.
As a pediatric dentist and a mom, I always remind parents that enjoying the holidays doesn’t mean putting dental health on hold. With just a few simple habits, we can help our children keep their smiles healthy and bright 😁 through every celebration.
🍬 ENJOY TREATS IN MODERATION
Sweets are best enjoyed with meals rather than as all-day snacks. Eating at mealtime increases saliva production, which helps wash away sugar and acids that can harm teeth. Encourage your child to drink water 💧 after enjoying cookies or candy, it’s one of the easiest ways to rinse the mouth and protect enamel.
🪥 KEEP BRUSHING AND FLOSSING FUN
Holiday schedules can get busy, but maintaining daily brushing and flossing is more important than ever. Try adding a festive touch:
- Let your child pick a toothbrush in their favorite holiday color 🌈
- Play cheerful music 🎵 for the two minutes of brushing
Keeping routines fun helps kids stay consistent.
📅 SCHEDULE A DENTAL CHECK-UP
Before the year wraps up, consider booking your child’s regular check-up. Preventive visits allow us to catch small issues early 🕵️♀️ and give your child a confident, healthy smile for the new year.
👨👩👧 LEAD BY EXAMPLE
Children learn best by watching us. When they see parents brushing, flossing, and choosing water over sugary drinks 🥤❌, they’re more likely to make those choices themselves. Making oral care a shared family routine ❤️ can turn it into a fun bonding moment.
The holidays are about joy, laughter, and creating memories 🎄✨. With a mindful approach and a good brushing routine, your family can enjoy all the sweetness of the season 🍬, without the cavities that sometimes come with it.
Here’s to a happy, healthy, and smiling holiday season! 😁🎉
