The air is crisper, the leaves are changing colors, and October is officially upon us. Do you know what that means? Halloween is right around the corner! Most families are excited to dress up in costume and go trick-or-treating around the neighborhood, collecting a stockpile of sweets that (hopefully) last through winter. Unfortunately, all that Halloween candy can have detrimental effects on your smile. Read on as a dentist in Chesterton shares tips to keep those tempting treats from damaging your grin.
How Does Candy Affect Your Dental Health?
It’s no secret that sugar can wreak havoc on your teeth. Every time you eat something sweet, the bacteria in your mouth feed on the sugar, producing a harmful acid that erodes enamel. Although candy isn’t good for your oral health, some types are worse than others. For example, hard, gummy, sticky, and sour candies are extremely bad for your teeth because they last a long time in your mouth. The longer your teeth are exposed to sugar, the more time bacteria have to do their damage.
Tips to Manage That Halloween Sweet Tooth
Do you have an irresistible craving for Halloween candy? Here are some ways you can manage your sweet tooth and keep your smile healthy.
Have a Plan to Limit Your Stash
Before your family goes trick-or-treating, it’s a good idea to have a plan in place to reduce the stash. There are many ways you can keep the amount of candy in your home to a minimum! For example, everyone can keep a select number of treats and donate the rest to an organization. Another option is to limit the number of houses your children visit on Halloween night. You can also let them trade the bulk of their candy for some kind of non-candy prize. Whatever you decide to do, make sure you have a solid plan and discuss it with your family in advance.
Maintain a Healthy Diet
Even when it’s not Halloween, you must eat a well-balanced diet full of foods that give your body the nutrients it needs to thrive. By doing so, you’ll “fill up” and feel less tempted to reach into your bucket of candy for a snack. Make sure you eat a healthy serving of whole grains, calcium-fortified dairy products, lean meats, fresh fruits, and vegetables every day!
Eat Healthier Alternatives
If you’re craving Halloween candy, reach for fresh fruit instead! It’s a healthy and delicious way to satisfy your sweet tooth. They contain natural sugars, so you can get your fix without putting your smile at risk. You can also try eating sugar-free versions of your favorite treats.
Is your family ready for Halloween? With the tips outlined above, you can manage your sweet tooth and keep your smile as healthy as can be!
About the Practice
At Advanced Dental Concepts, we provide truly comprehensive, state-of-the-art, individually tailored dental services that are guaranteed to meet your family’s oral health needs. Our team is passionate about helping patients of all ages obtain their absolute best smiles. We enjoy educating them as well to help them make confident and informed decisions about their oral health. For more ways to protect your smile this Halloween, visit our website or call (219) 926-7595.