Halloween is known for its festive décor, scary costumes, and, of course, delicious candy! So, if you have a sweet tooth, this “spooktacular” time of year may be a dream come true. However, the mass amounts of sugar can be a nightmare for your oral health. After all, when sugar interacts with the bacteria in your mouth, it turns into a powerful acid that can erode enamel and lead to tooth decay. Wondering how you can enjoy your Halloween candy without wreaking havoc on your teeth? Keep reading!
Tip #1: Be Selective About Your Candy
From milk chocolatey goodness to mouth-puckering sour candies, it can be tempting not to indulge in a little bit of everything on Halloween. However, candy isn’t equal when it comes to your teeth. Hard candy is one of the leading culprits of cracked and fractured teeth. Additionally, sour candy is high in sugar and acid, making it especially harmful for your enamel. Fortunately for chocolate lovers, milk and dark chocolate are the least harmful! (Although it is still beneficial to limit your consumption since it is high in sugar).
Tip #2: Save a Few, Toss the Rest
Whether you are stocking up on candy for trick-or-treaters or your little one comes home with enough to last until New Year’s Eve, holding onto all of it can make it difficult not to indulge. Instead, save a few and toss the rest. That way, you can still enjoy the holiday while simultaneously prioritizing your oral health!
Tip #3: Eat Your Candy With or Shortly After Your Meal
Your salivary glands play a crucial role in keeping your teeth strong and healthy. In fact, saliva helps wash away food particles and bacteria while neutralizing the acids in your mouth. Since the salivary glands are the most active during meals, try eating your candy then! Just make sure to follow up with your oral hygiene routine to keep your teeth in tip-top shape.
Tip #4. Always Brush Your Teeth Before Bed
After a long day, it can be tempting to jump under the covers and forgo your nightly brushing. However, if food particles and sugar are left alone during the 7+ hours you sleep, it can lead to tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease. To prevent these serious dental concerns from developing, make sure to always brush (and floss!) your teeth before bed.
Tip #5: Visit Your Dentist For Some Post-Halloween TLC
Whether you indulged in too much candy or are simply overdue for your biannual visit, scheduling an appointment with your dentist for some post-Halloween TLC is always a good idea. Not only can they check for warning signs of tooth decay, but they can also give your teeth a professional cleaning. After all, the tools they have at their office are the only ones that can effectively remove plaque and tartar. So, if you don’t already have a dental checkup on your calendar, schedule one today!
About the Practice
The latest technology, a world-class team, and comfort-based amenities are just a few of the reasons patients love Hill Avenue Dental. At each appointment, Dr. Doug Clark, Jr. and Dr. H. Douglas Clark III use their significant education, clinical skills, and genuine passion for their craft to help their patients achieve optimal oral health. If you are overdue for your biannual appointment, don’t hesitate to visit their website.