First Halloween, and then, the holidays. Festive celebrations make the end of the year a difficult time to avoid candy and other sweet delights. But all that sugar can take a toll on your teeth.
We’re here to help you and your family enjoy Halloween fun while keeping your mouth healthy—now and through the sugar-filled holidays as well.
Keep These Preventive Care Tips Top of Mind for Optimal Dental Health
Whether passing out Halloween candy to trick-or-treaters or taking your kids around the neighborhood, we understand it can be hard to resist the urge to partake in a bit of candy yourself. To maintain healthy teeth and gums, be sure to keep your oral health top of mind while you indulge in a little sweetness.
Give yourself the same rules around candy that you give your kids. If your kids are only allowed one piece of candy at a time, limit yourself the same way. Plus, it will be less obvious that you’ve been sneaking candy from their stash.
Make sure everyone in your home brushes their teeth after consuming candy. This really applies to anything sweet, including sugary drinks like juices. And don’t forget to floss. Sugars can get stuck between your teeth and cause significant damage.
Also, when was the last time you replaced your toothbrush? If it’s starting to look a little frayed, replace it, so you know your teeth are getting the quality brushing they need.
November 1 is National Brush Day! Learn about the observance and don’t miss our upcoming newsletter for more insights and tips.
Why the Extra Attention?
There’s no cause for alarm here, but the truth is we all have dangerous bacteria in our mouths. Sugar is full of energy, which helps the bacteria grow. The main reason you have to worry about cavities and gum disease when consuming sugar.
It’s not just bacteria you have to worry about, either. According to Healthline, the acids from the sugar will remove your tooth enamel. Over time, this will cause your teeth to form holes or cavities. If left untreated, cavities can spread deep into your teeth, causing pain and the loss of your teeth.
Did You Know?
How much do you know about your favorite candy? Before you reach for a second helping, consider these insights from your Romeoville Dental Center dentists:
- Do you want to know why sour candy makes your mouth pucker? It’s all the acidity! Acidity can weaken your teeth and increase your chance of getting cavities, according to our dentists.
- You might think lollipops are a safe alternative, but because they can take so long to consume, it’s more difficult for the saliva in your mouth to protect your teeth and gums.
- Sticky candy like gummies and taffy are no better. They get stuck in your teeth, which the bacteria in your mouth love. But your teeth, not so much.
Better Halloween Candy Options for Your Teeth
Chocolate! That’s right. If you must indulge in a Halloween treat, the American Dental Association encourages you to choose a chocolate one.
While chocolate contains sugar, it’s easier to brush off your teeth than other candies. And, of course, choose dark chocolate over milk chocolate when possible. It has less sugar.
If you’re doling out Halloween candy this season, consider sugar-free varieties. This is especially nice for kids who have diabetes.
Healthy Distractions for Your Sweet Tooth
Instead of eating candy this Halloween, consider other activities such as games, or other seasonal fun, like pumpkin carving or taking a walk to check out the changing leaves. If that’s not enough, try hiding Halloween candy in the freezer to limit the amount you and your family eat. Out of sight, out of mind, right?
Post-Halloween Candy Action Plan
After the trick-or-treating is over, and the candy is consumed, schedule a dental appointment if we haven’t seen you in the last six months. Call our Romeoville Dental Center office at 815-886-0875 or complete our online form to schedule a post-Halloween cleaning and exam for you or your family.
