Is Halloween Candy Bad for Teeth?

With Halloween fast approaching, kids and parents are sure to be planning costumes and buying treats for the big night. But what about the oral health impact of Halloween candy? Check out this information about Halloween candy to keep your family safe and healthy this holiday season!

Does Sugar Rot Teeth?

We hate to spoil the fun, but the truth is that most kinds of sugary sweets are bad for teeth. That’s because when mouth bacteria consume the sugar, they produce acids that weakened enamel. And weakened enamel can eventually become permanently damaged in the form of holes called cavities. Additionally, well-fed bacteria accumulate into a sticky film of plaque that irritates gums. And if not properly brushed, flossed, and rinsed away, plaque will harden into tartar, which further irritates gums and allows more space for bacteria to grow. We want you and your children to enjoy Halloween, but this means enjoying treats in moderation and maintaining superb oral hygiene to prevent these oral health issues.

“Witch” Halloween Candy to Choose?

Not all Halloween candy affects oral health the same way. Some are completely safe, like sugar-free candy and sugar-free gum. Chocolate, especially dark chocolate without a sticky filling, is less harmful than other forms of Halloween candy because it can be easily rinsed off of teeth. The scariest types of candy for teeth are those that are chewy, gooey, or hard, such as caramels, taffy, jawbreakers, and lollipops. These candies not only allow their sugar to linger for a dangerously long time on the teeth, but they can crack or break teeth and pull out fillings and crowns!

How to Prevent Halloween Cavities

It’s OK for your child to eat a few pieces of candy, but avoid letting them eat their entire haul of Halloween candy in one night. And instead of grazing constantly on candy in the days following Halloween, it’s better for your child to eat a few pieces of candy around mealtimes, following up with plenty of water to rinse away the food particles and candy residue. And most importantly, make sure your child continues to gently brush their teeth twice a day for two minutes each time with a fluoridated toothpaste and soft-bristled toothbrush.

Cavity Treatment for Kids

Let us know if your child complains of sudden tooth pain or sensitivity, or if you notice they have chronic bad breath. They could have an untreated cavity, especially if you know they have poor oral hygiene. Our expert team at Tots to Teens Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics will help them feel comfortable and at east as we examine the health of their teeth and determine the best course of treatment. We can also provide tips to help your kiddo become more excited about taking care of their teeth. So contact us today to schedule an appointment for your child.

Categorised in: Cavity Prevention, Healthy Teeth, Kids Dental Care, Kids Teeth, Pediatric Dentist, Preventive Dental Care