You can help prevent tooth decay in Tigard, OR without making your children skip the sweets they look forward to all year. Costumes and candy make Halloween exciting for kids. For parents, that overflowing trick-or-treat bag can also bring concerns about cavities.
Remember, also, to call 503-210-9802 for an appointment at Premier Dental and Implants.
What to remember: Sugar is not the only issue. How often teeth are exposed to sugar also matters. Bacteria use sugar to produce acids that can weaken tooth enamel.
A few family rules can help protect young smiles.
Start Halloween Night With a Meal
Plan ahead: Feed your children dinner before they head out to trick-or-treat.
A full stomach may make it easier to avoid eating piece after piece of candy along the route. Once kids return home, consider letting them choose a small amount of candy to enjoy.
Another good time for treats is after a meal. Saliva production increases while eating, helping the mouth clear away food and control acids.
Give the Candy a Home
Avoid constant snacking: Do not leave the Halloween haul where kids can reach it all day.
Ask your children to sort through their treats and choose their favorites. Store the remaining candy somewhere out of sight.
Set certain times when your kids can have a treat rather than allowing candy whenever they want it. This gives their teeth longer breaks between contact with sugar.
Take a Closer Look at Sticky Treats
Some sweets linger: Gummies, caramel, and chewy candies can stick to teeth and settle into small spaces.
Hard candies can also remain in the mouth for several minutes as they dissolve. This can expose teeth to sugar for a longer period.
Chocolate usually clears from the mouth faster than sticky or hard candy. Whatever your child prefers, keeping servings reasonable is a smart choice.
Wash Down Treats With Water
Keep drinks simple: Water is a great partner for Halloween candy.
It helps rinse away loose sugar and pieces of food after eating. If your local water contains fluoride, it can also help strengthen tooth enamel.
Choosing water instead of soda, juice, or other sweet drinks can help prevent tooth decay in Tigard. Have water ready when children return from trick-or-treating, and encourage them to drink it after enjoying candy.
Finish Halloween by Cleaning Teeth
Bedtime brushing still counts: Even an exciting night should end with good dental care.
Children should brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste. Encourage them to clean the fronts, backs, and chewing surfaces of their teeth. Younger kids may need help reaching every area.
Flossing cleans between teeth where a toothbrush may leave behind plaque and bits of food.
Did your child choose sour candy? These treats can be acidic. Consider having your child rinse with water and wait about 30 minutes before brushing.
Look Beyond Halloween Night
Dental care is a year-round job: Cavities can begin without obvious symptoms.
Regular dental exams give your dentist a chance to look for early signs of decay. Professional cleanings can remove plaque and buildup that home care may miss.
Your family dentist may also recommend fluoride treatments or dental sealants for some children. Sealants cover the deep grooves of back teeth, where food and bacteria can collect.
The bottom line: Halloween treats can fit into a healthy routine. Planned candy times, water, good brushing, flossing, and regular checkups can help prevent tooth decay in Tigard during October and throughout the year.
To schedule an appointment in Tigard, OR, call Premier Dental and Implants at 503-210-9802 or contact us online. Help your children enjoy their treats while protecting their growing smiles.
