The holiday season is here, bringing festive fun, delicious treats, and precious family moments. But while you're indulging in holiday feasts and sweet treats, don't forget about your child's dental health! At Burien Children's Dentistry, we believe that the holiday season is the perfect time to teach kids the importance of good oral hygiene—because healthy teeth are always in season! Whether you're planning a big family celebration or enjoying cozy winter nights, follow these simple tips to keep your child’s smile sparkling throughout the holidays.
Holidays often mean an abundance of sugary foods—cookies, candy canes, hot chocolate, and pies. While it's fun to indulge, excess sugar can lead to cavities. The bacteria in our mouths feed on sugar, turning it into acid that erodes tooth enamel. This holiday season, make a conscious effort to limit sugar intake and balance out treats with healthier options like fruit, cheese, or nuts.
It can be easy to let dental routines slip during the busy holiday season, but it’s essential to maintain brushing and flossing habits. Make sure your child brushes their teeth at least twice a day for two minutes, and don’t forget to floss daily to remove food particles stuck between their teeth. This will help avoid plaque build-up and keep their smiles shining bright for the New Year!
In between sugary snacks, encourage your child to drink plenty of water. Water helps rinse away food particles and sugars, and it’s the best drink for your child’s teeth. It also prevents dry mouth, which can lead to bad breath and tooth decay. Plus, it's a healthy alternative to sugary sodas and juices.
If your child enjoys chewing gum, make sure it’s sugar-free! Chewing sugar-free gum after meals can stimulate saliva production, which helps neutralize acids and protect your child's teeth from cavities. It's a great way to keep their teeth clean when you're on the go during the holiday festivities.
Before the year ends, schedule a visit to Burien Children's Dentistry for your child's routine checkup. Dr. Scott and Dr. Sofia Kennel, a husband and wife team of board-certified pediatric dentists, are here to ensure your child's smile is healthy and cavity-free. Their expertise and compassionate approach make dental visits enjoyable for kids, and their commitment to providing exceptional care means your child is in great hands.
Burien Children’s Dentistry Holiday Special: For added convenience during this busy time of year, we are offering extended hours for checkups and cleanings. It's the perfect opportunity to give your child the gift of a healthy smile in time for the New Year!
While kids may love the holiday treats, teaching them to make healthier snack choices is a great way to keep their teeth in tip-top shape. Instead of sugary snacks, consider offering snacks like cheese, veggies, or whole-grain crackers that are more tooth-friendly.
During the holidays, hard candy and nuts are often a part of many celebrations. While delicious, these items can be tough on teeth. Hard candies can cause cracks and chips in teeth, while nuts may get stuck between teeth. If your child enjoys these snacks, encourage them to eat with caution and brush their teeth afterward.
The holidays are a time for family fun, and you can incorporate good dental habits into the festivities. Consider making a game out of brushing teeth, or use holiday-themed toothbrushes and toothpaste to make the process more exciting. Your child will associate holiday cheer with healthy teeth!
At Burien Children's Dentistry, we want your family to enjoy every moment of the holiday season with the peace of mind that comes from knowing their dental health is in good hands. With our family-friendly atmosphere and commitment to excellence in pediatric dentistry, Dr. Sofia and Dr. Scott Kennel make each visit an enjoyable experience for both parents and kids.
Give the gift of a healthy smile this holiday season—schedule your child’s appointment today by calling (206) 246-4559 or visiting us at 14411 Ambaum Blvd SW Suite B, Burien, WA 98166. Our office hours are Monday through Thursday from 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM.
Wishing you a joyful and cavity-free holiday season from all of us at Burien Children's Dentistry!
Call to Action: Don’t wait—schedule your child’s checkup today! Keep their smile bright and healthy this holiday season.