Don’t Let Halloween Treats Play Tricks on your Teeth!
How much do you think Americans spend on candy each year for Halloween? If you guessed in the billions, you would be correct! Americans buy approximately $2.6 billion worth of candy each year for Halloween. With all of that candy, our trick-or-treaters are bound to experience some frightening tooth-related issues. Luckily, we are here with some tips to ensure that the candy ghouls don’t haunt your loved ones’ teeth this Halloween.
Sugar is well known to be the root of many problems associated with tooth decay and cavities. Natural bacteria in the mouth thrive and feast on sugar, turning it to acid. The acid created is what causes tooth enamel to wear and cavities to form. Chewy and sticky candy, such as caramel and taffy, remain on the teeth longer. The sugar gets stuck in crevices and on the surface of the teeth, creating a breeding ground for decay and cavities. The longer the sugar remains on the teeth, the better the chance for it to turn to acid and create problems.
Tips to Limit the Effects of Sugar
- Choose candy that can be eaten quickly and has a better chance of melting in your mouth.
- Avoid candy that can become stuck on teeth, such as fruit snacks, caramel, taffy, and licorice.
- If you can’t brush right away, swish a small amount of water to rinse out your mouth.
- Consider choosing a non-food treat to hand out to trick-or-treaters this year. Coloring books, playdoh, pencils, and stickers are great options.
As always, the best method for solving problems with your teeth caused by sugar is brushing and flossing as soon as possible. That is the surefire way to keep your teeth in tiptop shape.
Halloween is always a time that we are mindful of the sugar on our teeth, but it is also a great reminder that teeth need to be properly cared for year round. Now is a great time to review the proper way to brush at least twice daily and floss daily. Along with these tips, we always recommend to stay on top of your regular dental cleanings.
Please call us at our Burton office if you have any questions or to schedule your next cleaning, and we will be happy to help.
