Teaching Kids About the Tricks in their Treats On Halloween!
Halloween may be one of your children’s favorite nights of the year, but it can easily turn into a fright fest for oral health. This Halloween, protect your children’s teeth from the worst trick or treating candy offenders!
Here’s a list of the candies to avoid and some alternative options:
The candy that is most harmful to your teeth is the chewy candy that will stick to your teeth. Chewy candy includes Taffy, Starburst, Candy Corn, Sour Patch Kids, and chocolate filled with caramel and coconut. The longer the candy sticks to your teeth the more likely bacteria will develop leading to cavities.
Hard Candy
Other candy to avoid is hardy candy like Jolly Ranchers, Jawbreakers, or lollipops. Chomping down on hard candy can lead to cracked teeth. Ouch!
Chocolate
Stick to chocolate (except for the kind with sticky fillings!) when rummaging through the candy bowls. Chocolate won’t get stuck to your teeth and is a great way to curb your sweet tooth.
Gum
Sugar-free gum is the best option if you’re craving something sweet. Gum is made with low calorie sweeteners, like xylitol and sorbitol, that starve destructive bacteria so plaque can’t develop. Not only do you get to enjoy a treat but you’re helping your oral health!
Halloween is a great time to teach your children good oral health habits. It’s important they understand the effects too many sweets will have on their teeth. No child wants a cavity! Your kids don’t need to be deprived of trick or treating or their candy, the ‘trick’ is for them to understand some candy is better than others – and that everything is okay in moderation. By teaching children at a young age to take care of their teeth you’re teaching them good habits for life!
Keep in mind, it’s only one day a year, so enjoy your candy in moderation and remember to brush well!
Mamaroneck Oral Surgery wishes everyone a safe and Happy Halloween!