The temperatures have dropped and the spooky décor is up – it must be Halloween! While this scream-worthy holiday is known for its fun costumes, haunted hayrides, and classic movies, it just wouldn’t be the same without lots and lots of candy. In fact, the average American eats over 3 pounds of candy throughout the season. So, it’s not too surprising that tooth decay spikes significantly during this time of year. Fortunately, you can keep your sweet tooth at bay (while simultaneously protecting your teeth and gums) by using the below tips!
#1. Stay Away From Hard, Sticky, and Sour Candies
For years, dentists have warned their patients to stay away from cavity-causing foods that are delicious in the moment but can lead to tooth decay down the road. Culprit number one? Candy! Its high-sugar nature turns into enamel-eroding acid when it interacts with the bacteria in your mouth, leading to dental issues like cavities and gum disease. Hard, sticky, and sour candies are some of the worst offenders because of their acidic nature and ability to crack or fracture your teeth. Therefore, it’s best to stick with milk or dark chocolate.
#2. Keep a Few, Toss the Rest
Whether you stock up on candy for trick-or-treaters, or your little one brings home enough to last until the New Year, it can be tempting to keep every piece. However, this can wreak havoc on your oral health! Instead, determine the amount you’ll keep ahead of time and toss the rest. If you have a child who is resistant, try exchanging their remaining candy for a toy or special outing!
#3. Indulge in a Piece During or Shortly After a Meal
When the 3 PM slump or your 9 PM sugar craving hits, it is oh-so-tempting to reach for a piece or two of your candy of choice. But, to protect your teeth from decay, it is beneficial to indulge during or shortly after a meal. The increased saliva production will wash away the food particles and sugar, which will help tooth decay. Plus, you will likely get fuller quicker, which can prevent you from overindulging!
Halloween is known for being a spooky season, but it shouldn’t be scary for your teeth. To prevent your sweet tooth from negatively impacting your oral health, don’t hesitate to use the above three tips. Plus, make sure to visit your dentist for a routine exam and cleaning to keep your smile in tip-top shape!
About the Author
Since graduating from the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry, Dr. Bobby J. Carmen has continued to stay up to date on the latest in dentistry by completing thousands of hours of continuing education. Plus, he has studied at the prestigious Dawson Academy and Misch International Implant Institute, which are some of the finest institutions in the nation. So, whether you are overdue for your routine cleaning or your teeth need some Halloween time TLC, you can have peace of mind knowing your smile is in the best hands! To schedule an appointment, visit his website or give him a call at 405-364-2200.