Some Tips from a Dentist for Tooth-Friendly Trick-or-Treating

Halloween is a great time for building family memories and enjoying delicious treats. But all that sugar consumption can add up to one big toothache unless you follow some tips from your local dentist. Here’s how to keep this witching season both fun and tooth-friendly.

Keep the Fun Going by Spreading out the Sweets

Rather than having an all-out candy consumption marathon, encourage your kids to enjoy their treats over time as an after-meal dessert. The increased saliva production that occurs with regular meals helps to cancel out the effect of decay-causing bacteria.

Sticky Is Icky

Hard or sticky candies do double-damage to teeth, either by sticking to them or making it tempting to crunch down and possibly chip a tooth. Avoid these types of treats or minimize their consumption.

Go Sugarless

Sugar-free snacks have come a long way in the last few years. Not only are they tasty, they’re better for your dental health than the sugary versions. Add them to the candy you hand out on Halloween and include them with your at-home stash of sweets. Sugar-free gum is especially good, as it encourages lots of saliva-producing chewing. Or try sugarless chocolates, which are both yummy and tooth-friendly

Spread the Fun

Did you know that you can make a soldier’s day brighter by sharing candy and other treats? It’s true. In fact, there are organizations that distribute donated goodies to servicemen and women stationed overseas. Sharing some of the Halloween haul with these brave souls is a perfect way to show your gratitude while doing a good turn for your family’s dental health.

Keep It Moving

Inactivity is one of the major reasons why people overeat, no matter how old they are. Unfortunately, the winter can leave us with plenty of time to sit around and get bored. So liven things up this holiday season with games and other activities. Your family will be too busy having fun to think about snacking.

Drink Plenty of Fluoridated Water

Fluoridated water is probably the healthiest drink on earth. Not only does it help to keep teeth strong, it also helps to keep them clean between brushings. So encourage your kids to sip on good old H2O as they enjoy their holiday indulgences.

Keep the Snacks Discrete

Who can resist a candy bowl sitting in plain sight and within easy reach? Those occasional snacks add up pretty quick when it comes to calories and cavities. It’s best to tuck them away in a cupboard or other place out of sight. This is a perfect strategy for keeping temptation at bay.

Practice the Basics

Nothing beats following the old-fashioned formula of brushing after each meal, flossing daily, eating a nutritious diet, and seeing your dentist for periodic cleanings and checkups.

Tooth care tips take on added importance during the holidays, when most of us do a little extra nibbling on sugary treats. Practicing smart snacking habits is the best possible way to give your kids and yourself the sweet reward of long-lasting dental health.

About the Author

Dr. St. Clair has been practicing dentistry for over 20 years. He earned his dental degree from St. Anselm College and Tufts University School of Dental Medicine and keeps his skills sharp through continuous education. You can reach his office online or by calling (978) 948-2030.