The month is halfway done now, which means Halloween is getting closer and closer. As a parent, you’ve likely been preparing your child with costumes, trick-or-treat bags, and similar matters. However, do you know how to protect their smile from the effects of Halloween treats? It’s an important issue, as sugary sweets can cause tooth decay and cavities. In case you don’t, though, your dentist in Chesterton is here to help out. Read on to learn four tips for avoiding oral issues on Halloween night and beyond.
Choose Candies Carefully
Not all candy is created equal. As it turns out, some kinds are more harmful to teeth than others. Therefore, try to keep your child from eating the riskier treats.
For example, it’d be best if they avoided hard candies and caramels. These tough and sticky items linger in one’s mouth, exposing teeth to sugar over long periods. If a child has too many of them, then, they’ll be at high risk of oral health problems.
On the other hand, chocolate sweets are a better alternative. These candies are swallowed quickly and don’t cling to teeth as much.
Limit Your Child’s Sugar Intake
It’s a good idea to put a hard limit on how much candy your kid gets to have. For instance, you could have your family members keep their favorite sweets and donate the rest. Consider giving some to organizations that donate candy to troops overseas, like Operation Gratitude.
If it’s an option, you could also look into whether your dentist in Chesterton has a candy take-back program.
Only Have Sweets at Mealtimes
While you might think it’s okay to let your child snack on candy at all hours, that’s a bad idea. You see, eating sweets throughout the day is worse for teeth than just some at a designated time.
Given this fact, try to have your little ones eat candy with meals or shortly afterward. Since saliva production increases during meals, this habit will reduce the bacterial acids that the candies trigger. Furthermore, it’ll help rinse away the sweets’ particles.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
More than anything else, the best way to prevent Halloween oral problems is to practice good oral hygiene. In other words, ensure your child brushes their teeth morning and night on the 31st. Also, don’t forget to have them floss at least once! These actions will reduce harmful bacteria and other debris in their mouths, thus reducing the effects of sugary candy.
Even if Halloween is filled with candy and other dessert-type foods, that doesn’t mean you should let it ruin your child’s teeth. As such, have them practice the tips above so their little smiles sparkle on All Hallows’ Eve!
About the Practice
Advanced Dental Concepts is based in Chesterton, IN. As headed by Drs. Hayes and Koveck, our practice takes a personalized approach to dentistry. In doing so, we can perform high-quality preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatments, including emergency procedures. Our office also offers dental sedation and Invisalign clear aligners. For more information or to book an appointment, you can reach us on our website or by phone at (219)-926-7595.