The holidays are full of cozy traditions, sparkling lights, and—of course—lots of delicious treats. But while seasonal favorites bring plenty of joy, many of them can also be surprisingly tough on your child’s teeth. Between sugary snacks, sticky candies, and carb-heavy comfort foods, it’s easy for little smiles to face a higher risk of cavities or even dental emergencies this time of year. You don’t have to cut out your family’s favorites altogether. Instead, being mindful about moderation and making a few simple swaps can help keep your child’s teeth healthy while still enjoying the magic of the season.
1. Candy Canes and Hard Candies
They may be iconic holiday treats, but candy canes are among the worst offenders for children’s teeth. They’re loaded with sugar, and because they dissolve slowly, that sugar stays on enamel for a long time. Kids may also bite down on them, which increases the risk of chipping a tooth. A healthier swap: Soft peppermint puffs or seasonal fruit like clementines.
2. Sticky Sweets (Caramel, Toffee, & Chewy Cookies)
Sticky foods cling to every groove of your child’s teeth, making them difficult to brush away. Bacteria feed on the sugars left behind and quickly produce cavity-causing acids. A healthier swap: Soft gingerbread or homemade treats with less sugar.
3. Holiday Breads & Starchy Side Dishes
Dinner rolls, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and other starchy favorites break down into sugars in the mouth. Because children often snack on leftovers throughout the day, their enamel may be exposed to frequent acid attacks. A healthier swap: Add crunchy veggies like carrots or broccoli to help naturally scrub teeth.
4. Hot Chocolate & Sweet Holiday Drinks
A cozy cup of cocoa is a winter staple, but it’s usually high in sugar—especially when topped with marshmallows. Children tend to sip slowly, which extends sugar exposure on their teeth. A healthier swap: Homemade cocoa with less sugar or warm milk with cinnamon.
5. Dried Fruit & Snack Mixes
Raisins and dried cranberries seem healthier than cookies, but they’re just as sticky and sugary. When added to snack mix, they can get lodged between teeth, causing plaque buildup that’s hard for kids to clean on their own. A healthier swap: Fresh fruit like apples, pears, or grapes.
How to Keep Your Child’s Smile Healthy All Season Long
Even if your kids enjoy some holiday treats, you can still protect their teeth with a few simple habits:
- Encourage water between snacks to rinse away sugars
- Set treat times instead of letting kids snack all day
- Stick to brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Offer cheese or nuts after meals to rebalance acids
- Schedule a preventive visit if they’re due for a checkup
With a little planning, you can help your child enjoy their favorite traditions while keeping their smile bright and healthy.
About the Practice
This season, trust Mighty Molars Pediatric Dental in Inver Grove Heights to provide gentle, kid-focused preventive care to help children enjoy strong, cavity-free teeth year round. Dr. Matt is here to save the day, keeping smiles merry and bright. Come visit us before enjoying those stocking stuffers and get every smile ready for holiday photos!
Call us at (651) 450-6111 or request an appointment online.