Dental Tips for a Healthy Halloween

Kids always look forward to Halloween celebrations for many obvious reasons. They can dress up in a costume and get lots of goodies and different kinds of candies to eat.

As per some studies, Americans spend almost 9 Billion dollars every year just to buy candies. We know that almost every celebration in the USA has some particular sweet treat or candy to invest in. However, it is Halloween, which is also known by the name candy holiday. This is because Halloween is the time when kids get and eat as much candy as they can.

Halloween, your child's favorite holiday, is right around the corner, and hence, our dental team at Stonewall Dental Associates reminds you to take care of your as well as your child's teeth with some additional care and precaution while enjoying some favorite sweets and candies.

So, here are some tips for you that will help take care of your child's teeth from the harmful effects of Halloween candy.

• Tip #1: Avoid Gummy & Sticky Candies 

Gummy and chewy candies are most dangerous for one's teeth. They might stick to the child's teeth or get stuck in the teeth crevices, making it difficult for the saliva to wash them away. This sugar that stays on the teeth will eat away the enamel of the teeth and increase the risk of cavities. 

Besides, lollipops and hard candies might require a long time for consumption, and the more they stay in one's mouth, the more is the risk of cavities. 

• Tip #2: Ensure That Your Child Brushes Their Teeth Properly 

Even during the busy Halloween season, never allow your child to skip brushing and flossing. Keenly monitor their brushing and ensure that they are following the right brushing technique. Persuade them to brush their teeth for a minimum of 2 minutes every morning and evening, and if possible, after eating candies. Try to make brushing fun - so they will never try to rush. 

• Tip #3 Avoid Sour Candies

Sour candies contain an extremely high amount of acid, which can lead to an increased risk of teeth problems. So, try to avoid sour candies at any cost. In case your child eats sour candies, ask them to drink a lot of water afterward so that the water can neutralize the acid. Besides, brushing teeth right after the consumption of sour candy is not recommended as the combination of acid and sugar can damage the teeth.

• Tip #4  Call Your Dentist at Stonewall Dental Associates if You Suspect a Cavity 

If you suspect that your child has a cavity or tooth decay during or after Halloween, bring them to Stonewall Dental Associates at the earliest.

Look for the following signs of cavities in your child: 

• Toothache or feelingness of sensitivity to sweets
• Pain while consuming something hot or cold
• Tooth stains

Detection of cavities in their initial stages helps prevent their advancement. Never left a cavity untreated as it can lead to pain, tooth infection, tooth damage, problems with chewing, etc.

Follow these tips and protect your and your child's teeth from Halloween candy and tooth decay. At Stonewall Dental Associates, we hope everyone has a fun, safe, and cavity-free Halloween this year. 

If you have any doubts or would like to schedule an appointment with us, call Stonewall Dental Associates at (703) 368-1000.