Halloween is one of the most exciting times of the year for kids—between all the fun costumes, trick-or-treating, and other spooky festivities, there are lots of reasons for children to smile! However, while candy might seem harmless enough, the sugar overload that follows can spell bad news for teeth. Here’s a closer look at some of the biggest offenders that you should encourage your child to avoid this Halloween, along with some smile-friendly alternatives they’ll enjoy just as much.
What Candies Can Be Troublesome for Teeth?
Some types of candy stick around and feed the bacteria that fuel cavities, including chewy and sticky candies like caramel, taffy, gummy bears, sour gummies, fruit chews, and other similar items. Likewise, hard candies, including jawbreakers, lollipops, and even candy bars that are tough to bite into, can potentially chip teeth, not to mention, they can expose them to sugar particles for longer periods of time.
Is There Any Candy That’s Teeth-Friendly?
Compared to the items mentioned above, there are several better candy options for teeth that kids should love just as much. One example is chocolate; it melts away quickly and rinses off teeth easily. Dark chocolate is even better than milk chocolate, too, since it has much lower sugar content and might even have some antioxidants. It’s also wise to opt for non-candy options when possible, including fruits, pretzels, and sugar-free chewing gum.
Tips for a Healthier Halloween
In addition to knowing what candies are problematic and which are better for teeth, you can also help your child practice good oral hygiene habits this Halloween:
- Encourage moderation and allow candy as a treat rather than a constant snack throughout the day. Frequent snacking also increases the risk of cavities, so when they have their candy, ensure they finish it in one sitting.
- Make sure they’re brushing and flossing their teeth before going to bed. This ensures they’re removing all the sticky residue and sugary particles before they have the chance to wreak havoc overnight.
- Consider scheduling a post-Halloween checkup and cleaning for your child; the last thing either of you should want is a hidden cavity to remain unnoticed until it worsens!
By choosing smarter, smile-friendly candy options for your child this Halloween, you can ensure that they still enjoy the holiday without compromising their dental health!
About the Author
Dr. Tad Morgan received his dental degree from the Baylor College of Dentistry and is a proud member of numerous professional organizations, including the American Dental Association and the renowned Academy of General Dentistry. His practice in Bullard offers a wide range of services, including routine preventive care for children of all ages. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with the office to set up an appointment, please reach out online or call today for more information or assistance. Telephone: (903) 825-1112.