Halloween is a fun holiday for kids and adults, but there tends to be a lot of sugary treats. Without the right steps, these treats could lead to the onset of cavities and toothaches! But we have a few tips to help. In today’s blog, your Houston, TX, dentist talks about avoiding Halloween cavities.
The Link Between Halloween Treats and Cavities
When we consume candies and sweets with a lot of sugar, particularly ones that cling to the teeth like caramel or toffee, this means bacteria have the chance to break down and consume the sugar particles. As they do, this creates a sticky bacterial byproduct that coats the teeth. Known as plaque, this can harden with time into tartar and weakens the outer enamel, allowing tooth decay to form. Kids then suffer from painful symptoms and risk the onset of infection! But with a few steps, you can help lower your risk of tooth decay following the spooky season and throughout the holidays to come!
Tips for Cavity-Free Smiles
First, try to avoid sticky candies. Choose for ones like milk chocolate, which are easier to remove when you brush and floss. Speaking of, you need to brush your teeth for two minutes when you wake up and then do so again before going to bed each evening. Be sure you use a fluoride toothpaste to keep your enamel strong! We also suggest flossing every evening to move what is beyond the reach of a toothbrush alone.
Try to limit how many sweets you eat each day. Have a piece or two just after dinner and with a glass of water. The combination of water and the increased saliva production will help rinse away the sugar particles. Parents can also let their kids choose a few favorite pieces and give them the option to trade the rest in for a toy, money, or a fun activity, so they get to trick or treat but don’t overindulge in sweets. If you are handing out treats to neighborhood kids, consider sugar-free selections or even Halloween-themed party favors.
Our Team can Help
We can conduct a dental cleaning to remove all plaque and tartar from the teeth, which helps lower the risk of cavities and even periodontal issues. For kids, we can also discuss fluoride treatments and dental sealants to help strengthen their teeth and lower the risk of decay, for months or even years to come. If you have any questions about avoiding tooth decay, then please contact our team today.
Healthy Smiles Provides Better Oral Health
We want to help you avoid tooth decay and enjoy healthy and comfortable smiles. To find out more about our office, or to schedule an appointment, please call Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry in Houston, TX at (281) 974-4494.
