Halloween is right around the corner! And with so many delicious sweets and treats available around this time of the year, it’s important to be extra-mindful about you and your little one’s oral health! That said, here are some helpful tips from your dentist in Round Rock for avoiding oral health problems this Halloween season!
1. Be Selective About Which Sweets You Eat
With such a wide variety of candies and treats available these days, it can be difficult to tell which ones are terrible for your oral health, but you should do your best to choose items that cause the least damage to teeth. Instead of caramels and hard candies, choose chocolates; they’re often swallowed quickly and don’t stick to teeth, nor do they pose a risk of fracturing them! You should also try to avoid candies that are acidic or chewy. Even “healthier” snacks like crackers and pretzels can pose a risk to you and your little one’s smile, as these starchy-items can also form cavity-causing bacteria when consumed.
2. Enjoy Sugar in Moderation
Of course, it’s also good to enjoy sugar in moderation and to limit the amount of time that sugar is in contact with your teeth, when possible. When buying candy for Halloween, consider candy that can be eaten quickly such as miniature candy bars. You might also consider steering clear of items like lollipops, caramels, or other hard candies. You can also encourage your child to eat a small amount of candy in one sitting followed by a glass of water and thorough tooth brushing.
3. Schedule Preventive Care
You and your child should both be visiting your dentist twice a year for preventive care, and if you haven’t had your second visit yet, now is a great time to schedule it! These routine appointments play an integral role in detecting oral health issues early on.
4. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Good oral hygiene is something that you and your child should maintain year-round, not just during Halloween! That said, this season be sure that you’re practicing and also encouraging good hygiene habits. Brushing twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush is crucial, especially if you’re consuming candy. Also be sure to floss and use an antibacterial mouth rinse.
Don’t let any unforeseen oral health issues spoil the fun for you and your child this Halloween! Following these tips and making smart choices will keep everybody’s smiles looking white and bright.
About the Author
Dr. Mike Asay has proudly served patients and families in the Round Rock, TX area for several years. Dr. Asay received his dental doctorate from the Baylor College of Dentistry and is an active member of several professional organizations including the American Dental Association and the Texas Dental Association. If you have any questions about the article or would like to arrange an appointment, you can contact Dr. Asay through his practice’s website or over the phone for assistance: (512) 244-2796.