The holiday season is all about family, and of course, gifting. If you’re looking for a gift that your loved one is likely to actually use and benefit from, consider one that will bolster his or her oral health.

Check out some of the most popular gifts people are considering to improve their loved ones’ oral health this season.

Dental Cleanings or Gift Certificates

Many people feel that that they don’t have the time or money to go to the dentist. If your loved one has fallen behind on dental care, the best possible gift could be a dental cleaning and checkup. You can also check with your dental office about a gift certificate for other products and services offered.

Electric Toothbrushes

A high-quality electric toothbrush provides a more thorough cleaning than manual brushing, and is better for gum health, too. The best electric toothbrush will depend on your loved one’s specific needs, so this might not be the best “surprise” gift.

Factors to consider include:

• Does the recipient deal with tooth or gum sensitivity?
• Are they interested in hygiene alone or other benefits like whitening and plaque control?
• Would they appreciate add-ons like a two-minute timer?

Another potential option is a travel electric toothbrush. They are easier to pack than a regular electric toothbrush, and sometimes less expensive.

Sugar-Free Gum

Sugary snacks and candy are an ever-popular stocking stuffer. Instead, or in addition, consider sugarless gum. Sugarless gum is mouth-healthy not only because it lacks decay-causing sugar, but also because it stimulates saliva production, preventing dry mouth and helping remove bacteria particles.

Day or Nighttime Mouth Guards

If your loved one suffers from bruxism (or teeth grinding), a nightguard is one of the best things you can gift to support their oral health. Bruxism wears down teeth and promotes decay, which can be prevented by the use of a nightguard.

Mouthguards are also important for the athletes in your family. Athletes that wear mouthguards are 60 times less likely to sustain a dental injury while playing sports.

Your dentist can help you select the right nightguard or mouth guard for your loved one’s needs. However, this usually requires taking an impression of the teeth, so this gift won’t be a surprise!

Whitening Kits

Who doesn’t want whiter teeth? Tooth whitening is one of the top cosmetic procedures in the US, and your loved one will likely appreciate the gift of a whiter smile. You can gift a home whitening gift, or give your loved one a gift certificate for professional in-office whitening or tooth color restoration.

If you’re not going through a dentist, be aware that whitening can increase tooth and gum sensitivity, so it might not be the best option if your loved one has sensitive teeth or gums.

DIY whitening without a kit can also be damaging to your loved one’s teeth.

Toothbrush Sanitizers

Toothbrushes remove all kinds of icky mouth bacteria. A toothbrush sanitizer rids your toothbrush of all the bacteria and debris left behind from brushing so that it doesn’t go right back into your mouth the next time you brush.

Water Flossers

Many people prefer flossing with a water flosser (such as a Waterpik) rather than conventional floss. Factors to consider when selecting a water flosser include:

• Gum sensitivity
• Dental work inside the mouth, such as braces or permanent retainers
• Whether a cordless or countertop flosser would be more convenient

If your loved one suffers from periodontal disease, gingivitis, or other gum health problems, it’s always best to consult with a dentist regarding the best type and technique for flossing.

Sometimes the hardest part of gifting is thinking of something to get for those relatives who seem to have everything. Do something different, and give them the gift of good oral health this year!