What’s scarier than the ghosts and goblins you might find lurking in the shadows this Halloween?
Poor dental hygiene!
Halloween may be full of frights, but cavities don’t have to be one of them. With the right approach, you can enjoy this sweet holiday while protecting your teeth at the same time. We’ve rounded up some helpful dental tips for keeping your teeth happy and healthy this Halloween.
Eat Sweets in Moderation
As a kid, you may have planned your trick-or-treating route based on which houses handed out full-size candy bars. After all, the more candy, the better — right?
Not quite. When you consume candy, the added sugars convert into acids that damage your teeth. Over time, this damage can lead to cavities and .
The good news is you don’t need to avoid candy altogether on Halloween. The key is moderation. Swap a full-size candy bar for a fun-size portion. Instead of grazing on sweets all day, enjoy a few of them in one sitting. With some simple adjustments, you can still enjoy the spirit of the holiday (and probably avoid a stomachache, too).
Know the Best and Worst Candy for Teeth
While all sugar can cause cavities, some candy is worse than others for your dental health. In particular, sticky and chewy candies, like taffy and gummies, are among the worst foods for your teeth, according to the (ADA). These foods can get stuck in your teeth, trapping the sugar in places where it’s harder to reach with brushing.
For chocolate lovers, however, there’s some better news. Chocolate dissolves more quickly and won’t stick to your teeth as long, . Whether you’re attending a Halloween party or stealing a piece from your child’s trick-or-treat bag, chocolate is one of your best options.
Remember to Brush
If you indulge in Halloween’s sweeter traditions, you’ll want to know how to prevent cavities after eating candy. Luckily, there’s a simple solution: brushing your teeth.
It’s best to wait before brushing your teeth after you eat sugary foods. Waiting to brush allows your saliva to dissolve acids naturally and protect your enamel from weakening. You can also rinse your mouth with water after eating candy.
Once it’s time to brush, follow some . Brush for 2 minutes using a toothbrush with soft or medium bristles. Use a fluoride toothpaste and don’t rinse with water after spitting.
Pop Some Gum
For those times when you’re not able to brush after eating, keep some sugarless gum handy in your bag, car, or desk. , sugar-free gum helps your mouth produce saliva, which works to reduce the acid from sugars. While it’s not a substitute for proper brushing and flossing, chewing sugar-free gum can help minimize the impact of sugary treats.
Drink Water
If you know you’ll be enjoying some extra sweets around Halloween, stick to water as your beverage of choice. Unlike juices or soft drinks, water helps by washing away food and sugary residue. Water also works to neutralize the acids that cause cavities and tooth decay. Sip water after eating candy to keep your teeth healthy.
Donate Extra Candy
After hosting a festive gathering or handing out sweets to trick-or-treaters, you may find yourself with bags of leftover candy once Halloween ends. Rather than keeping this excess candy for yourself, consider donating it.
Some organizations accept Halloween candy for a good cause. For example, Soldiers’ Angels collects candy for its , which sends care packages to military members. Local organizations in your community, such as food banks or homeless shelters, may also accept donations.
Opt for Other Halloween Treats
Planning on handing out candy to trick-or-treaters? This year, consider skipping the candy and giving out something other than treats. Alternatives like crayons, glow sticks, and stickers can make children smile without adding more sugar to their candy haul. Plus, you won’t be tempted to overindulge on candy when you don’t have any in the house.
Have Fun
More than anything, have fun and enjoy the holiday. Eat your favorite treats and make sweet memories with your family and friends. With these dental tips in mind, you can celebrate Halloween while protecting your smile.
Encourage Others to Follow Dental Tips with a Career in Dental Hygiene
Halloween doesn’t have to be frightening for your oral health. By following a few simple dental tips, like eating sweets in moderation, drinking water, and brushing regularly, you can enjoy the treats without the tricks.
If you’re passionate about helping others practice good dental hygiene, consider making it your career. At ¹ú²úÖ÷²¥, our Dental Hygiene program helps prepare students for a rewarding career in dental care. In as little as 34 months, you can earn a bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene (BSDH) and start helping others keep their smiles healthy on Halloween and all year long.
Ready to take the next step toward your future career? Schedule an information session today!
WCU provides career guidance and assistance but cannot guarantee employment. The views and opinions expressed are those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the beliefs or position of the school or of any instructor or student.
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