October is National Dental Hygiene Month, a chance to celebrate the important contributions dental hygienists make in our lives. They’re responsible for removing the stubborn plaque and tartar that cause tooth decay and helping us keep our smiles healthy between visits.
And with Halloween right around the corner, it’s more important than ever to pay attention to our oral health needs. Let’s explore why chocolate is the best Halloween candy for your teeth and what sweet treats may not be the best option.
Which Halloween Candies Are Easiest and Hardest on Your Teeth?
We tell our patients that chocolate is actually the easiest on your teeth because it melts quickly and washes away easily.
Caramel, taffy, suckers, gummy bears, and jawbreakers are hard on your teeth because of the increased risk of cracking a tooth and the prolonged exposure to acid and sugar.
How Should You Handle Candy If You Have Crowns, Veneers, or Clear Aligners?
If you have dental restorations or wear clear aligners, here are some tips on eating Halloween candy:
- Crowns and veneers — Don’t bite down on any hard candy, especially with your front teeth. And sticky candy can loosen your restorations. It’s best to break hard candy into smaller pieces.
- Clear aligners — Always remove your aligners before eating any type of candy. If you leave them in, you could damage them, and sugar can get trapped between them and your teeth.
What’s the Best Way to Care for Your Teeth After Trick-or-Treating?
Now that you’ve gotten a big bag of candy and the fun is over, there are some things you can do to care for your teeth:
- Rinse your mouth with water after eating any candy.
- Wait 30 minutes before brushing after eating sour candy.
- Enjoy Halloween treats with meals instead of snacking between meals.
- Maintain a good brushing and flossing routine to eliminate the harmful bacteria that can cause tooth decay.
Looking for a Dentist in Cookeville, TN?
Instead of searching online for “Halloween candy teeth,” we hope you’ll let us show you what quality dental care looks like in Cookeville! At Hall Dental Group, we’re committed to helping you and your children maintain healthy smiles before, during, and after the Halloween season.
To schedule an appointment or ask a question, feel free to contact our office.