Tips for a Tooth-Friendly Easter Basket For Children

Easter is a holiday celebrated by children across the world. The celebration involves Easter egg hunts and Easter baskets. Children receive Easter baskets filled with candy and toys. However, Easter baskets can be filled with healthy items as well. Listed below are some tips on what to include in a Tooth-Friendly Easter Basket.

If Chocolate Is a Must, Buy Dark Chocolate

It's nearly impossible to say no to sweet treats around Easter time. However, the last thing your kiddos' teeth need is more sugar! If your kids still want to indulge a bit, try to find some candies that are more tooth-friendly. Dark chocolate is best - it has less sugar and is still tasty. You can also dole out non-food treats like stickers and temporary tattoos.

Don't forget to pick up replacements for that basket of Easter eggs too! Instead of sugary candy, fill their baskets with toys or books.

Avoid Sugary Treats

Candy and other sugary treats are tempting for many children, but they aren't good for their teeth. Instead of filling their basket with chocolate bunnies and jelly beans, consider placing other fun items in their basket. Some good ideas include sidewalk chalk, bubbles, coloring books and crayons, sticker books, or board games like checkers.

If you must put candy in the basket, choose those that don't stick to your teeth. Sour candies are also on the "no" list because they erode tooth enamel. Sticky candies such as caramels or gummy bears will cling to teeth and cause cavities. Hard candies can also chip teeth and damage soft tissues. Try to stick to sugar-free choices instead.

Remember that the Easter Bunny isn't the only one handing out candy on Easter! Encourage your kids to avoid grazing from the goodies throughout the day by placing a limit on the portion size they can eat at one time. Offer them healthy snack options to balance out their sugar intake. Parents can make a healthy treat alternative as well. For example, you could decorate hard-boiled eggs with food coloring and stickers to make them fun for the kids to eat. With a little creativity, you can avoid putting your child's dental health at risk this Easter holiday.

Choose Candy Made with Xylitol

Easter baskets are so much fun, but it's important to keep in mind that not all candies are good for your children's teeth! Sugary treats can cause tooth decay and cavities. Fortunately, there are healthier alternatives for your basket this year. Consider including these xylitol-based candies.

Call San Pedro Pediatric Medical Group at (310) 832-6487 or schedule an online appointment to learn more about taking care of your child's oral and dental health.