Kids love receiving Easter baskets, which are typically brimming with sweets and goodies. However, many parents are hesitant to provide these treats to their children for fear of harming their oral health. That’s why dentists recommend swapping out the sweets for tooth-friendly options.

The History of Easter Baskets

Surprisingly, Easter baskets have ancient origins. Farmers would put the first seedlings of the season in a basket. These baskets were then taken to places of worship to ensure their crops would continue to be bountiful throughout the year. 

Eventually, Easter became a Christian holiday. Lent, which takes place over the 40 days before Easter, is a time of fasting, so Christians celebrate by having a feast on Easter Day. In the past, food for the feast was provided in baskets, which are still used today to celebrate the holiday. 

How to Ensure Your Child’s Basket Is Tooth-Friendly

Including the following items in your child’s Easter basket will promote good oral health:

• Apples: Apples are fibrous, so they gently scrub away plaque and bacteria. They’re also sweet and tasty, which means all kids love them. 
• Carrots: Carrots also have natural tooth-scrubbing abilities. They contain vitamin A as well, which helps build tooth enamel and increases gum health. 
• Hardboiled Eggs: Hardboiled eggs are traditional to decorate and make a basket more colorful. They’re also brimming with vitamin D, which helps your body absorb calcium efficiently.

Along with teeth-healthy treats, you can include fun toys, games, crafts, and books. Dentists also suggest adding some dental care items to your child’s basket, such as a new toothbrush and floss. 

If your child has eaten a few too many Easter treats, bring them to Honolulu Keiki Dental. Dr. Dean T. Sueda, DDS, MS, and his skilled staff provide preventative care, restorative procedures, and emergency treatments, all in a relaxed, kid-friendly environment. They even offer Saturday and early morning appointments to accommodate your busy schedule. Call (808) 944-1603 to schedule an appointment with a dentist. You can also visit the website to prepare for your first appointment.