During the fall there is one holiday that kids anxiously wait for… Halloween. A big question Tempe dentists get is if Halloween candy is bad and if anything can be done to reduce the chance of tooth decay, gum disease, or tooth loss.
First of all, most children get a huge amount of candy for Halloween; some children can come home with pounds of it. Sweets and candy are great treats, but aren’t good for a child’s overall health or tooth health.
What happens when you regularly eat sugary foods is that plaque (a sticky film of bacteria) will produce an acid that attacks the teeth and gums… repeated attacks result in tooth decay from tooth enamel breakdown.
So, what can you do to help avoid tooth problems?
- Eat a balanced diet. Healthy eating habits and reducing sugary treats are key to a healthy mouth. For excess Halloween candy, consider donating it to an organization or shelter.
- Practice good dental hygiene, brushing at least twice a day and flossing once a day.
- Visit your Tempe dentist every six months to prevent dental problems and catch any problems as early as possible.
- Eat sweets with meals. During a meal your mouth produces more saliva to help wash away food and neutralize plaque acid, which may not happen if you eat the candy as a snack.
- Drink fluoridated water and consider chewing sugarless gum to help prevent tooth decay. Certain sugarless gums such as Trident or Stride have won the ADA Seal of Acceptance.
If you don’t clean your teeth properly, you may be opening yourself up to tooth decay, gum disease, and possibly tooth loss over time. Properly caring for your teeth, visiting your dentist regularly, and following the five steps above can help you and your family keep your smile healthy and enjoy the Halloween festivities.
Are you looking for a family dentist in Tempe? Call Tempe Dental Care at (480) 730-5000 to make an appointment today!