Giving someone a gift that’s a nod to their orthodontic treatment is a nice way to support them on their smile journey. I know you’re probably rolling your eyes, expecting to see a list full of toothpaste and orthodontic wax, but that’s not how my team and I do things here at Jeffrey Kwong Orthodontics. I promise, these holiday gift ideas are things the braces and Invisalign patients in your life will actually like.
1. A Retainer Buddy
Retainer Buddies are cute, sturdy holders for Invisalign® aligners, mouthguards, and retainers. They come in all sorts of characters and are designed to keep orthodontic appliances safe and off household surfaces.
A mom of two teenage boys created Retainer Buddy® because she was tired of her kids leaving wet aligners and retainers on bathroom sinks, kitchen counters, bedside tables, or, even worse, in a napkin that could be thrown away. These would be great holiday gifts for kids, teens, and even adults.
2. Cocofloss
I know, I know, dental floss as a present? Well, you might think I’ve had one too many candy canes, but people are particular about their floss. So if you love what you use great, and if you’re looking for something new, Cocofloss is not your average dental floss and the brand is cool and buzzworthy.
Plus, the floss is effective, dentist loved, non-toxic, and beautifully packaged. It comes in exciting flavors, ranging from confetti cake to sweet pineapple, with a few classics in between, and cuts down on single-use plastics because the containers and tools are refillable.
You’ll find both braces and Invisalign gifts on the website. A braces wearer might appreciate the Cocoplush Threaders (floss with a built-in, stiff threader) as a stocking stuffer. Or, go for one of the gift sets (options include bundles with multiple floss flavors and sets with floss and self-care treats).
3. A Braces Ornament
No list of orthodontic gifts would be complete without something to commemorate the experience! A braces ornament fits the bill. Soon, those braces will come off to reveal an amazing smile, but the ornament will be a festive reminder of that phase of life.
I like this handmade glass ornament featuring a big smile adorned in shiny brackets. Or, for a braces off gift idea, check out this personalized ornament, marking the end of treatment.
4. Fancy Lip Balm
Lip balm helps soothe dry, chapped lips and irritation during braces and Invisalign treatment. Jack Black Intense Therapy Lip Balm is made with shea butter and antioxidants for long-lasting moisture and protection. Or try Spinster Sisters. The brand’s all-natural lip balms are light and silky. Either would be a welcome gift.
5. A Cool Retainer or Invisalign Case
One of the best ways to keep track of clear aligners and retainers is to put them in a highly visible, hard-to-miss case when they’re not being worn. Etsy seller HenwickHall makes unique, whimsical, gift-worthy retainer and Invisalign cases, including personalized ones that can be monogrammed.
Bonus: The cases have a mirror in them, which makes it easier to get appliances in and out and, of course, can be used to check for food in the teeth.
6. Movemints
Sugar-free mints are a better stocking stuffer than candy because they don’t cause cavities. And Movemints have a dual purpose: they freshen breath and help seat Invisalign aligners. A delicious alternative to Invisalign chewies, or bite sticks, the mints ensure aligners fit like a glove to promote optimal tooth movement.
7. A Next-Level Toothbrush
For the adults and teenagers on your list who are straightening their teeth, the Oral-B Smart Electronic Toothbrush comes in sleek, limited-edition colors. It pairs with an app and uses position-detection technology to give the user feedback on their brushing habits.
As for kids, Colgate hum Kids Smart Manual Toothbrush makes brushing with braces or an appliance super fun. The brush fits into an augmented reality connector and transmits to a phone or tablet. Dots track brushing progress in a live game with monsters popping up in areas your child missed.
8. A Frame for Before and After Pictures
A double photo frame is an awesome way for someone in braces or Invisalign to display before and after photos side by side. For a thoughtful holiday gift idea, put your favorite pre-treatment picture of your loved one in the frame.
Then, when they finish Invisalign or get their braces off, they can add a post-treatment pic. In the meantime, the gift serves as a little bit of motivation and an excuse for your loved one to have a photo shoot when they reveal their new smile.
9. A Hydro Flask Water Bottle
Having a good reusable water bottle on hand prevents dry mouth with aligners and braces, helps wash away food debris after eating, and, in a pinch, can be used to rinse off clear aligners. The Hydro Flask 21-ounce water bottle is a favorite because it’s crafted from insulated, double-walled stainless steel, so it keeps drinks hot or cold for hours. It’s incredibly portable and comes in tons of colors.
10. A Travel Bag for Their Braces or Invisalign Accessories
A toiletry or cosmetic bag is ideal for holding everything a braces or Invisalign wearer needs while on the go. If you’d like to shop local and get something a little extra special, you’ll find cosmetic bags at Blaq Boutique and Sassy Sapphire Boutique in El Dorado Hills or Button Up Boutique in Folsom, CA.
Treat Yourself (or a Loved One) to a Confident Smile
There you have it, 10 fun gift ideas for people with braces or Invisalign. And if you’re looking for a holiday gift that will last a lifetime, consider orthodontic treatment for yourself or your kids. Braces, InBrace, and Invisalign can boost your oral health, overall health and confidence!
To learn more about your teeth-straightening options, schedule a complimentary consultation at Jeffrey Kwong Orthodontics in El Dorado Hills, CA.
Happy holidays!
