What kid doesn’t love being visited by the Easter bunny, namely excitedly opening a basket of goodies on Easter morning? In fact, what parent doesn’t secretly love gathering the little trinkets and treasures that will garner smiles from those same happy kids? This year, though, why not choose items that can cause smiles and protect them. So rather than resorting to gobs of candy and other sugar-filled goodies, consider these dentist-approved and smile-healthy alternatives!
Candy Isn’t the Only Treat Kids Love
Sure, candy is an easy and affordable way to fill an Easter basket. Unfortunately eating too much sugar can put your kids at an increased risk of developing cavities that would require dental fillings. So this year, instead of chocking their baskets full of sugar, consider these healthy and fun alternatives.
- Most kids enjoy spending extra time outside now that spring has sprung. So why not fill their Easter baskets with small toys, games and art supplies that emphasize time outdoors?
- This time of year it’s easy to find sidewalk chalk shaped like eggs, or tubes of bubbles shaped like carrots to keep with an Easter-theme. Many kids would also enjoy jump ropes or sunglasses, both perfect for fun in the sun.
- For older kids and teens, consider filling traditional plastic eggs with non-edible items that will be useful and fun, like travel-sized nail polishes or lip glosses, new earphones, or collectible figurines.
- Kids of all ages tend to enjoy drawing or coloring, so include a coloring book or sketchpad along with crayons, map colors or markers for our budding artist!
- If you do want to add some candy, avoid any overly hard items that could actually damage teeth, as well as super chewy ones, which can stick to teeth and create acidity.
- Healthier snack options include fresh fruit or bottles of water, along with sugar-free chewing gum, all perfect if the kids will be opening their baskets at a picnic or egg hunt. You could even add a new toothbrush in a fun spring color!
Does Your Child Need Preventive Care?
Is your child overdue for a dental checkup and cleaning? If so, don’t delay a trip to the dentist. To schedule a consultation, call Gentle Smiles in Dallas, TX, today at 972-329-7645 (972-329-SMILE).
