Are you getting excited about the upcoming Halloween season of spookiness, fun, and, of course, candy? While indulging in treats is part of the holiday spirit, it’s always a good idea to consider the effects of sugary snacks on your teeth.
Here at Goodman Dental Center in Queen Creek, Arizona, our expert dentists Brian Goodman, DDS, Tanner Goodman, DMD, and our professional dental team offer insight about Halloween candy.
You don’t have to shut down the thrill of trick or treating! Instead, we want to help you make teeth-friendly choices so you can enjoy October 31st without worrying too much about a trip to the dentist.
We encourage you to be aware of the following cavity-causing culprits:
Think caramels, taffy, and gummy bears. These candies cling to your teeth and can be difficult to remove, even when you brush well. The sticky texture allows sugar to linger on your teeth for long periods, increasing the risk of cavities. Bacteria in your mouth feed on this sugar, producing acid that erodes your tooth enamel.
Sour candies may seem harmless, but they’re not just sugary — they’re also highly acidic. This combination of sugar and acid is a double threat to your teeth. The acidity can weaken and damage your enamel, leaving your teeth more vulnerable to decay.
Sucking on hard candies like lollipops and jawbreakers keeps sugar in your mouth for extended periods. Plus, there’s always the risk of chipping or breaking a tooth if you bite down too hard. The longer sugar stays in contact with your teeth, the more time bacteria have to create damaging acids.
On the other hand, we offer these excellent tooth-friendly options you can enjoy without guilt:
Chocolate, particularly dark chocolate, is one of the better treats for your teeth. Unlike sticky candies, chocolate washes off your teeth more easily. It also contains less sugar than other sweets, making it a less risky option for your enamel. Dark chocolate also has antioxidants that are good for your overall health.
Chewing gum doesn’t have to put your teeth in danger of developing cavities. Choosing sugar-free gum with xylitol can actually help protect your teeth. It’s a natural sweetener that reduces harmful bacteria in the mouth. In addition, chewing gum stimulates saliva production, which helps wash away food particles and acids.
While not traditional Halloween treats, handing out nuts or trail mix can be a tooth-friendly alternative. Nuts are low in sugar and high in protein, and their crunch can help clean teeth by removing some of the plaque.
While enjoying a sweet treat or two won’t ruin your teeth, it’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene year-round.
To keep your teeth and gums healthy and strong, brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, and don’t miss your bi-annual professional teeth cleanings at our practice. Our dental hygienist removes plaque and tartar build-up that your toothbrush might miss, helping you avoid the need for fillings so your smile can stay healthy and bright.
Make smart candy choices this Halloween, and don’t forget to schedule your next cleaning!
To learn more about how to maintain good oral health, or to book an appointment, call our friendly office staff today at 480-807-4000, or click here to schedule a visit with our team.
