Halloween is right around the corner! And with so many delicious treats and sugary sweets available around this time of the year, it’s important to be extra-vigilant about your child’s oral health—especially if they’re an avid trick-or-treater! Here are some tips from your dentist in Atlanta to help you keep your child’s smile as healthy and white as possible this spooky season.
Tip #1. Be Selective About Certain Types of Candy
With such a vast array of candies and treats available these days, it’s sometimes tough to discern which ones are hazardous for your oral health. A good rule of thumb to remember is that the longer a certain type of candy stays in your child’s mouth, the more harmful it is. Instead of caramels and hard candies, have your child opt for chocolates; they’re often swallowed quickly and don’t stick to teeth, nor do they pose a risk of fracturing them. You should also have your child avoid candies that are acidic or chewy. Even “healthier” snacks like crackers and pretzels can pose a risk to your child’s smile, as these starchy items also form cavity-causing bacteria when consumed.
Tip #2. Enjoy Sugar in Moderation
Timing matters, and instead of letting your child graze on their Halloween candy all day, it’s better to let them have a few pieces after a meal. Cavity prevention isn’t only about the amount of sugar consumed, but also how frequently it’s consumed. That said, it’s also good to enjoy sugar in moderation and limit the amount of time it’s in contact with your teeth.
Tip #3. Be Mindful of Sugary Beverages
During the holiday season, and arguably starting with Halloween, there are seemingly endless opportunities to indulge in sweet foods and drinks: juices, Kool-Aid, sodas, hot cocoa, and more can all be potentially hazardous for your child’s teeth. To counteract the extra sugar in many of these beverages, encourage your child to drink plain water instead. Water is the absolute best drink for your body and oral health, as it has the added benefit of washing away residual sugars after eating or drinking something sweet.
Tip #4. Encourage Good Oral Hygiene
Good oral hygiene is important year-round, not just during Halloween! That said, be sure that you’re encouraging your child to brush and floss daily. Brushing twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush is crucial, especially if they’re regularly consuming sweets.
Tip #5. Schedule Preventive Care
Brushing and flossing on their own isn’t enough—your child should also be visiting their dentist twice a year for preventive care, and Halloween season isn’t a bad time for one of these biannual visits! These routine appointments play an integral role in detecting oral health issues early on. They also allow your child’s dentist to remove any stubbornly built-up plaque and tartar.
Don’t let cavities or tooth decay spoil the fun for you and your child this Halloween! Following these tips and making smart choices will keep everybody’s smiles looking white and bright.
About the Practice
The team at Vason Family Dentistry is honored to serve patients and families in the Atlanta, GA area under the leadership of three skilled specialists: Dr. Hamilton Vason, Dr. Carlisle Vason, and Dr. Kristen Grisham. Their practice is pleased to offer a wide range of services including preventive, cosmetic, and restorative options. If you have any questions about the article or would like to arrange a visit, please contact the practice through their website or over the phone for assistance: (404) 367-9799.