Halloween is such a fun time for kids and adults too. The costumes, the parties, trick or treating, and the candy… so much candy! Enjoying a bit of Halloween candy doesn’t have to be off limits but knowing how certain candy can affect your teeth may help you make better choices when it comes to choosing that sweet treat. As we head into the season of sweets, let us help you make the best choice when it comes to looking out for your teeth.
Troublesome Treats for Teeth
Sour Candy
For fans of those tart and sour candies that make you pucker your mouth, be aware of the effects that linger after the sour taste has passed. These candies are not only sour but they are also acidic. These acids can promote tooth decay which can break down tooth enamel.
Sticky, Gooey Candy
It only makes sense that sticky candy sticks to your teeth more. The stickier it is, the more it increase your chances of having leftover candy stuck in the crevices of your teeth. Add braces to the mix, and you could end up with broken brackets. So be careful when it comes to things like taffy, caramel, and gummy bears.
Hard Candy
Crunch! Crunching down on hard candy is tough on teeth and braces. But sucking on hard candy is also harmful. The longer the candy is in your mouth, the longer your teeth are exposed to sugar which leads to an increased risk of tooth decay.
Best Halloween Candy for Teeth
Certain candies do less damage to teeth than others so here are some options to indulge in with less dental impact.
Chocolate Candy
Chocolate bars and treats are a decent choice as they don’t linger in your mouth and on your teeth as much as overly sticky or acidic candies do.
Sugarless Gum & Candy
Usually not as sticky, hard or acidic as some other candy options out there, sugarless candy also rings true to its name – they have less sugar content.
When planning for which Halloween candy to enjoy, remember it is possible to make choices that are not as harmful for your dental health. And remember, it’s always a good idea to have water on hand to help rinse the sugars and acids from your mouth while enjoying your sweets. Call our office if you have any questions or if a little Halloween indulging was your reminder to schedule your next dental appointment!
