Halloween is a holiday celebrated by people in many countries around the world. It is celebrated on October 31st every year. It is celebrated by people wearing costumes and masks and going door to door to ask for treats. It marks the beginning of the holiday season. Here are a few tips to follow a good oral health:
Avoid Sticky or Hard Candy
Sticky and hard candies can be problematic for your teeth, so it’s best to avoid them at all costs. Hard candies like lollipops and jawbreakers can crack and fracture teeth if you aren’t careful, while sticky candies like gummy bears have a tendency to stick to your teeth and gums for long periods of time. Both of these can increase the risk of cavities and the need for restorative dentistry in the future. Plus, the stickiness of the candy makes it more difficult for you to brush it away after consumption, which increases your risk for tooth decay even further.
If you do consume a sticky or hard piece of candy this Halloween, try to brush your teeth as soon as possible afterward to ensure that the sugars aren’t left behind to linger and cause damage. And if it’s too difficult for you to remove the candy from your mouth, consider either spitting it out or using a water flosser to clean your teeth immediately.
Avoid Hard and Crunchy Foods
Hard or crunchy candies can cause damage to your braces, especially if they do not come off easily. Any food that is sticky or hard to bite into can get stuck in your braces and lead to plaque buildup and even more bacteria. Sticky candies, including toffees, gummy bears, caramels, and certain chocolates, can lead to cavities in healthy teeth if eaten frequently while wearing braces. If you feel the need to eat sticky candy on Halloween, make sure to brush and floss afterward to remove any extra bits.
Eat a Healthy, Balanced Diet
Be sure to eat a well-balanced diet that limits the number of treats you eat to one or two a day. You can also substitute healthier choices for your sweet indulgences, such as dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate or sugar-free candies instead of anything with added sugar.
If you do snack on candy, be sure to brush and floss afterward. This will remove plaque-causing food particles and keep your teeth clean. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help rinse away any lingering sugar in your mouth.
Visit Your Dentist
It’s important to get yourself and your kids to the dentist more than just once a year for an exam and cleaning. Teeth cleanings are important to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Dental exams are also important to look for early signs of decay or other problems that might warrant dental treatments, such as fillings or crowns.
Cavities are the most common chronic disease of childhood in the United States. Nearly 20 percent of kids ages three to 17 have at least one untreated cavity, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Even if cavities are caught and treated early on, they can still cause pain and affect a child’s ability to eat and talk properly. Don’t forget to have a conversation with your dentist about the best way to keep your smile healthy while you enjoy your treats this Halloween!
Vosh Dental is equipped with the best dentists and modern amenities that enable the best treatment for the patients. To learn more about our dental emergencies, visit our office at 4541 HERITAGE TRACE PARKWAY SUITE #1301 FORT WORTH, TX 76244. You can also reach us at (817) 203-1561 and schedule an appointment.
