Halloween is one of the sweetest times of the year, and there’s no reason you can’t enjoy some candy! The key is to enjoy your treats smartly and give your teeth a little extra protection.
Not all candy is equally tough on your teeth. Sticky and chewy candies like gummies, taffy and caramel tend to cling to teeth and expose them to sugar for longer. Hard candies can also be problematic because they stay in your mouth for a long time.
If you’re choosing a treat, chocolate is often a better option because it doesn’t stick to your teeth as much and washes away more easily.
Instead of snacking on candy throughout the entire day, enjoy it with or shortly after a meal. Your mouth produces more saliva during meals, which helps wash away food particles and neutralize acids.
Drink plenty of water. Water is your teeth’s best friend! Encourage children (and adults!) to drink water after enjoying their Halloween treats. It helps rinse away sugar and keeps the mouth hydrated.
Keep up your brushing and flossing. Halloween is no excuse to skip your regular oral hygiene routine.