Halloween Goodies and Your Child’s Smile

With the colder weather rolling in and Halloween just around the corner, one thing on many children’s minds is candy! Though there are some definite “what-ifs” when it comes to the spooky holiday this year, especially in the wake of the Coronavirus pandemic, we at Cleveland Family Dentistry in Cleveland, Texas urge our patients and their families to keep in mind healthy habits to protect their smile during the holidays. While you may already be consistently brushing and flossing your teeth, knowing a few effects of goodies and your smile may go a long way.

Sugar Feeds Oral Bacteria

It is true most individuals have a sweet tooth, and occasionally satisfying that craving is perfectly fine. What you may not be aware of, however, is that candy’s most active ingredient, sugar, actually has a similar effect on oral bacteria. The sugars in candy actually feed bacteria, causing it to secrete acids that in turn damage the structure of your tooth and cause its deterioration. This can lead to cavities and other oral concerns that threaten your smile. With all this in mind, if left unchecked, candy really can rot your teeth. This is why it is crucial to maintain general preventive measures such as brushing and flossing so you can ensure your smile lasts a lifetime.

The Dangers of Hard Candy

Lollipops, jaw-breakers, and more are Halloween-time favorites and have been for years. But what happens if you chomp down on them? Hard candies have the potential to cause teeth to chip, crack, and even break. This is especially true for younger teeth, as they are still developing and growing. While there are restorative dental measures that can be followed, the goal is really to preserve your original smile as long as possible, and being cautious about hard candies and how they can damage your grin is a must during this time of the year.

Treats in Moderation

With this information in mind, we recognize as well that Halloween only occurs once a year and that indulging in sweet treats is not standard practice. There is no harm in celebrating with a little holiday cheer, but we urge you to pay close attention to the types of treats and the quantity for the sake of your grin.

Keeping Your Child’s Grin Safe During the Holidays

Whether you are celebrating with family, friends, exchanging gifts, or even trick-or-treating, holidays can be a fun time for all who participate. We are not requesting you do not participate in the holiday festivities, but rather that you keep these tips and tricks in mind when going door-to-door. Moderation is key, and we want nothing but the best for you and your little one’s smile. For more information or to schedule an appointment with our office, contact Cleveland Family Dentistry in Cleveland, Texas by calling (281) 592-1234 today.