Happy Halloween from all of us at Amundson Dental Associates, PC! Our practice is gearing up for this delightfully spooky day by hosting a pumpkin decorating contest. If you have an upcoming appointment, be sure to stop by and check it out!
Since it’s Halloween, we wanted to take this opportunity to discuss the dangers of Halloween candy—specifically, when it comes to your teeth. Whether your little one is out trick-or-treating or you have easy access to these tasty treats at home, it’s important to know the dos and don’ts of enjoying candy while keeping everyone’s smile healthy.
We’ll start with the things to be cautious of—or the “don’ts,” if you will. We recommend limiting sticky or chewy candies because they cling to your teeth and tend to stick around longer. Similarly, it’s best to avoid hard candies because they dissolve slowly in the mouth, keeping your teeth exposed to sugar for a longer period of time. Both types of candy can increase your risk of cavities and, in the case of hard candies, can even put your teeth at risk of chips or cracks.
So, what candy do we recommend? Chocolate! Compared with many other types of candy, chocolate is generally a better choice for your teeth because it doesn’t stick to them as long as sticky or chewy candies do. That’s not to say chocolate is completely harmless—it still contains sugar and should be enjoyed in moderation. Be sure to brush and floss regularly to help keep your smile healthy.
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to candy and sweets this Halloween, we recommend fresh fruits and vegetables, cheese, yogurt, nuts and seeds, or popcorn. These snacks are generally lower in sugar and are less likely to stick to your teeth.
For those who plan to enjoy a Halloween treat (or two!), there are a few simple things you can do to protect your smile. We recommend drinking water afterward to help rinse away leftover sugar and food particles. Additionally, if you enjoy acidic candy, such as sour candy, wait about 30 minutes before brushing your teeth. Acid can temporarily weaken your enamel, so brushing immediately afterward may cause additional wear.
And, of course, be sure to maintain your regular oral hygiene routine by brushing twice a day and flossing daily.
We hope you have a safe, happy, and enjoyable Halloween—and, of course, a healthy smile!