With Halloween just around the corner, it’s time to get excited about costumes, decorations, and—of course—candy! While enjoying some sweets is part of the fun, it’s important to know which treats are gentler on your teeth and which ones can be more harmful. As your dentist, I want to help you make tooth-friendly choices this Halloween so you can enjoy the festivities without worrying about cavities.
Candies that Stick to Your Teeth
Sticky candies like gummies, caramels, and taffy can be particularly troublesome for your dental health. These types of candy tend to cling to the surfaces of your teeth, getting stuck in the tiny spaces between them and sticking to your enamel. When candy lingers on your teeth, it gives the sugar more time to fuel cavity-causing bacteria. If you or your little ones indulge in these kinds of treats, try to rinse your mouth with water afterward and brush your teeth as soon as you can.
Slowly Dissolving Candies
Hard candies like lollipops and jawbreakers are also worth being cautious about. Because they dissolve slowly, they expose your teeth to sugar for a longer time, increasing the risk of tooth decay. There’s also the risk of chipping or cracking a tooth if you bite down too hard. If you decide to enjoy these candies, let them dissolve naturally and avoid biting down on them. Follow up with a rinse or brushing to clear away any remaining sugar.
Chocolate
On a brighter note, some sweets are more tooth-friendly. Dark chocolate, for example, dissolves quickly and doesn’t stick to your teeth as much as other types of candy. It also has less sugar than milk chocolate, and there is some evidence that it may contain compounds that help inhibit the growth of bacteria in the mouth. Sugar-free gum is another excellent option—it satisfies your sweet tooth while helping to clean your teeth by stimulating saliva, which naturally washes away food particles and sugars.
The secret to enjoying Halloween treats without harming your teeth is balance and maintaining good oral hygiene. After enjoying some candy, make sure to brush and floss thoroughly to remove any lingering sugars. And don’t forget your regular dental visits so we can keep your smile healthy. Have a fantastic Halloween filled with fun, and remember, your smile is the best treat of all!
Sincerely,
Ramy Bahu, DDS
