5 Must-Know Tips for Candy Consumption Around Halloween

Full of scary décor, haunted houses, and creepy costumes, Halloween really is the most “spooktacular” time of year. However, it just wouldn’t be the same without tons and tons of candy! Whether you’ve bought a few bags for trick-or-treaters or your little one comes home with enough to feed a small army, it is important to remember how a few too many pieces can impact your oral health. With this in mind, read on for five Halloween candy tips to keep your teeth and gums in tip-top shape this time of year.

#1. Eat Your Candy With or Shortly After a Meal

Did you know that saliva helps prevent tooth decay? It’s true! It helps rinse away food particles and neutralizes the acids in your mouth to prevent cavities from forming. Therefore, it is a good idea to reach for your favorite candy when your salivary glands are the most active – during meals!

#2. Stay Away from Other Sugary Drinks and Snacks

Candy alone has the potential to wreak havoc on your teeth and gums. However, when other high-sugar items are added into your diet (like soda and Pumpkin Spice Lattes), you are even more vulnerable to decay and gum disease. So, make sure to drink plenty of water and load your diet with nutrient-dense foods (i.e., fresh fruit, leafy greens, etc.).

#3. Keep a Few, Donate the Rest

Initially, it can be tempting to keep every piece of candy that finds its way into your home. Nevertheless, it’s best to keep a few and donate the rest. That way, you can avoid the temptation of snacking on it throughout the day over the next couple of months. If your little one is not a fan of giving away their candy, “purchase” it from them in exchange for a new toy or fun outing!

#4. Always Brush Before Bed

When the sun sets early and the temperatures drop, few things are as inviting as your warm covers. But before you jump into bed, you must brush your teeth! That way, food particles, debris, and plaque aren’t left unattended for 7+ hours while you sleep.

#5. Visit Your Dentist Bi-Yearly

In short, no oral care regimen is complete without routine exams and cleanings from your dentist. In addition to addressing and treating dental concerns, they can also provide preventive care that protects you from sudden dental emergencies and future decay. Plus, cases of cavities skyrocket during this time of year, so there is no time like the present to visit the dentist.

Going the entire season without indulging in some candy is nearly impossible. Fortunately, you can protect your teeth and gums effectively by using the above tips!

About the Author

Since completing dental school at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, Dr. St. Clair has helped countless patients keep their teeth in tip-top shape. Whether you are overdue for your routine appointment or a few too many pieces of candy have left you with a toothache, his 20+ years of hands-on experience, advanced training, and genuine passion for his craft will leave you with a strong, healthy, beautiful smile. Don’t hesitate to visit his website or give him a call at 978-948-2030 to schedule an appointment.