Halloween is a fun and exciting time of the year for kids; the spooky stories, ghoulish costumes, and frightening pumpkins splattered all around our Edmonton communities, and of course, the waterfall of candies! This frightful night, however, doesn’t seem just to benefit the children’s rush of sugary treats, as 80% of adults admit indulging in their children’s candy stash with them. Perhaps the scariest part is the haunting of teeth problems that arise afterward. Of course, the best recommendation is balance and moderation, which still allows your children (and you) to enjoy the treats, without the tricks. As your local West Edmonton trusted dental clinic, we’re here to help you navigate the sugary season with a healthy smile.
The Best and Worst Candies for Your Teeth, According to Dentists
Not all candy is created equal when it comes to your oral health. Making smarter choices can significantly reduce the risk of cavities.
Sticky & Chewy Candies
Try to avoid eating sticky candy, such as taffy, caramel, and gummies, as they tend to stick to your teeth for a more extended period of time, giving bacteria more fuel to produce acid. This prolonged acid attack is a leading cause of tooth decay. These candies are particularly troublesome because they can pull out fillings and damage crowns, leading to emergency visits to dentist for repairs.
Hard Candies
Lollipops and other hard candies are a double threat. They not only contain a high amount of sugar but also linger in the mouth for a long time, constantly bathing teeth in acid. There’s also the risk of a dental emergency, like a chipped or cracked tooth, if you bite down on one unexpectedly.
Chocolate
Chocolate bars, especially dark chocolate, are a better choice for your teeth compared to most other types of candies. It washes off teeth more easily than sticky or hard candies and is often devoured quicker, reducing the time sugar is in contact with your enamel.
Gum
Opt to go for the sugar-free chewing gum; it can actually benefit your teeth. Chewing gum stimulates saliva production, which is your mouth’s natural defense system. Saliva helps to rinse away food particles and neutralize the acids made from bacteria in plaque. Chewing sugar-free gum after a sugary treat is a great habit for both kids and adults.
Fun & Healthy Halloween Alternatives for Our Community
Halloween doesn’t have to be all about the sugar! Consider being the house that offers fun alternatives. Many children, especially those with dietary restrictions, will appreciate the option. Great non-candy treats include:
- Glow sticks, bracelets, or necklaces
- Bubbles
- Halloween-themed pencils, erasers, or stickers
- Mini play-dough containers
- Small games like bouncy balls or mini frisbees
Your Post-Halloween Dental Check-Up in West Edmonton
The key for good oral health is maintaining good oral hygiene, especially after a holiday like Halloween. A professional cleaning is the most effective way to remove any tartar buildup and plaque you may have missed, ensuring that minor issues are caught before they become major problems.
Schedule a check-up for your family at our clinic. We are committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive care for patients of all ages, making us the trusted choice for families across the region. Let us help you ensure the only thing left over from Halloween is fun memories, not cavities. For personalized assistance, feel free to contact us at info@designdentistry.ca or 780-484-8138.
Have a Safe, Sweet, and Smile-Friendly Halloween, Edmonton!
