Halloween is right around the corner. As you take your little one out trick-or-treating, you can guarantee they’re going to come home with a plentiful candy stash. While you may not think one night of indulging in sugary treats can affect their dental health, candy increases their risk of tooth decay. You might believe that all candy is the same, but your child’s pediatric dentist has a list of sweet treats they should avoid. Here’s how to choose the best candy for your little one’s pearly whites.
The Worst Halloween Candy
Not all candy is equal in the eyes of your child’s dentist. Here’s a list of candy you need to watch out for:
- Hard Candy: Crunching on hard candy can increase your child’s risk of a broken tooth, which is a dental emergency. Sucking on it isn’t any better. They must hold it in their mouth for several minutes for it to dissolve. It will bathe their teeth in cavity-causing residue for longer.
- Sticky Candy: Sticky candy, like caramel or taffy, will cling to their teeth, especially the crevices of the molars. It can be difficult to remove, increasing the likelihood of decay.
- Sour Candy: Sour candy is a double whammy. Not only is it sticky and loaded with sugar, but it’s also acidic, which can erode your little one’s enamel.
The Best Halloween Candy
Most dentists agree that the best candy is chocolate. It’s less likely to linger in your child’s mouth because it dissolves more easily than other varieties.
Halloween Tips for a Cavity-Free Smile
As your child enjoys the spooky decorations and fun costumes, don’t forget to follow a few simple tips to protect their dental health:
- Limit Sugar Consumption: Allow your child to have a couple of pieces of candy, and put the rest away for later, or donate it to a food bank. Moderating their sugar consumption will help safeguard their enamel. If they are eating more candy than usual, cut back on other sugary foods and drinks.
- Eat Candy with a Meal: Your child should eat candy with a meal because it increases saliva production. This will help cleanse their teeth in between brushing and flossing.
- Brush and Floss: Your child should brush their teeth at least twice a day for 2 minutes each session. However, if they’re snacking more often, have them brush after every time they eat. Besides brushing, they should floss their teeth every night before going to bed.
- Stay Hydrated: It’s easy for your child to become dehydrated after a long night of trick-or-treating. Ensure they are drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated. This will also keep their mouth moist and rinse their teeth when they can’t get to their toothbrush.
Following a few simple tips will ensure Halloween doesn’t have to come back to haunt your little one’s smile.
About Dr. Marie Tremblay
Dr. Tremblay earned her dental degree at the University of Montreal and has continued her education in various specialties, including pediatric dentistry. She is a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry and a member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Request an appointment through her website or call (413) 779-3136.