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 look forward to dressing up in costume and trick-or-treating around the neighborhood, only to return home with bags of free candy. However, all that sugar can wreak havoc on your little one’s teeth. Luckily, knowing which treats to avoid can keep your child from developing cavities after Halloween. Keep reading to learn the best and worst Halloween candy for your little one.
Chocolate
It may surprise you to learn that chocolate is one of the least damaging Halloween candies for your teeth. Since it washes off easier than other types of candy, it’s the most ideal option for your oral health. If possible, encourage your child to reach for dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate. It has less sugar, making the chances of developing tooth decay, cavities, gum disease, or other oral health problems much lower.
Sticky and Gummy Candy
While sorting through their stash of Halloween candy, encourage your little one to get rid of any sticky and gummy candy. They can wreak havoc on teeth, making them some of the worst types for your smile. Since these candies are sticky, they’re harder to remove and stay longer on your teeth. As a result, cavity-causing bacteria have more time to work. Sugar-free gum is the only exception in this case. Not only can it help prevent tooth decay, but it keeps your breath minty fresh as well!
Hard Candy
Watch out for hard candy this Halloween! They’re just as bad as gummies. Although candies like lollipops and jawbreakers won’t stick to everything in your mouth, they take a long time to dissolve. And the longer they stay in your mouth, the more acidic your mouth becomes. What’s worse, biting down on hard candy can result in chipped, cracked, or broken teeth.
Sour Candy
You’ll want to consider passing on the sour candy this season. Not only are they sticky and coated in sugar, but they’re highly acidic. The acidity can weaken and damage the outer layer of your teeth (enamel), making them more vulnerable to dental problems like decay, cavities, and even gum disease.
Popcorn Balls
These are a popular Fall favorite! Unfortunately, they’re not so good for your teeth. They’re sugary, sticky, and the kernels can easily get stuck in-between your teeth. If you or your child indulge in one, make sure you have some floss on hand to clean your pearly whites afterward.
Your child’s smile doesn’t have to be scary this Halloween. Now that you know which treats to avoid, you can help your little one stay cavity-free this season!
About the Author
Dr. Jayson Voto has over 12 years of dentistry experience under his belt. He completed his dental education at the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry. Dr. Voto is passionate about helping patients of all ages achieve and maintain optimal oral health. He also believes patient education is crucial to help them make informed and confident decisions about their smiles. For more ways to keep your child’s teeth safe this Halloween, visit our website or call (918) 272-5381.