Halloween is right around the corner, which means spooky decorations and lots of candy. Even if you don’t eat candy regularly, overindulging in sweet treats for a few days can lead to bad news next time you see your dentist. You don’t have to miss out on the festivities to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Here are 7 tips to safeguard your smile from Halloween.
1. Eat Candy with a Meal
Dental professionals recommend eating candy with a meal instead of snacking on it throughout the day. This decreases your enamel’s exposure to sugary residue that can lead to decay. Eating increases saliva production to cleanse your mouth between brushing and flossing.
2. Not All Candy is Equal
Not all candy is the same in the eyes of your dentist. Chewy and sticky candy cling to your teeth and can be difficult to remove from hard-to-reach areas, like the grooves of your molars. As the sticky residue sits on your teeth, it can slowly erode the protective layer until a cavity forms. It’s best to choose candy that rinses from your mouth easily, like dark chocolate.
3. Drink Plenty of Water
A long night of trick or treating can lead to dehydration if you aren’t careful. If your mouth is too dry, it becomes a great environment for oral bacteria growth. It’s best to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Every sip will also rinse your mouth to minimize cavity-causing bacteria.
4. Cut Back on Other Sweets
If you’re eating more candy than usual, cut back on other sweets and treats, like cookies and cake. Instead, choose low-fat dairy products to promote strong enamel.
5. Brush and Floss
Although life gets a little busier during the holidays, don’t forget to brush and floss. The American Dental Association recommends brushing at least twice a day for 2 minutes; however, if you’re snacking more often, strive to brush after every meal. Floss your teeth at least once a day to remove buildup your toothbrush can’t reach.
6. Chew Sugarless Gum
If you can’t get to your toothbrush after having candy, chew a piece of sugarless gum. It will encourage saliva production to reduce food residue in your mouth.
7. Snack on Fruit and Vegetables
Snack on fresh fruit and vegetables throughout the day. Besides providing vital nutrients, crisp produce also acts as scrub brushes for your teeth to keep them clean.
Don’t let Halloween come back to haunt your smile. Give your teeth and gums a little extra attention to ensure your mouth stays healthy.
About Dr. William J. Cappello
Dr. Cappello achieved his dental degree from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine and has regularly pursued additional training to provide the latest solutions in dentistry. He is an award-winning dentist and affiliated with many professional organizations, including the American Dental Association. Request an appointment through his website or call (203) 816-5545.