Now that it’s that spooktacular time of the year, your little one is most likely excited to have fun with the Halloween festivities. Whether they’re into scary movies or carving pumpkins, there will probably be lots of candy involved. Everyone knows that sugar isn’t good for oral health, but some treats may be worse off than others for your child’s pearly whites. Keep reading to learn about the best and worst Halloween candies for children from your pediatric dentist in Cumming!
What Are the “Best” Halloween Candies?
Although sugary treats are generally detrimental to your little one’s oral health, you won’t want to completely keep them away from enjoying their favorite candies. The best options for them will be snacks that aren’t too hard, gooey, or sticky, which can end up clinging to, chipping, or cracking their teeth. To keep their smile safe, make sure they stick to treats like:
- Kit Kats
- Three Musketeers
- Soft cookies
- Chocolate bars (preferably dark, but milk works as well)
- Ice cream
What Are the “Worst” Halloween Treats?
While many candies are tasty and enjoyable, the last thing you’d want is to risk them needing to visit an emergency dentist on Halloween night. To help them reduce their chances of experiencing any complications this season, make sure they refrain from munching on the following treats:
- Hard candies, like lollipops, jawbreakers, or Nerds
- Sticky or gummy snacks, like taffy or Starburst
- Tart candy, such as sour straws or Sour Patch Kids
- Peanut brittle
- Popcorn balls
Smile-Friendly Tips for Preventing Cavities
Helping your little one choose the right candies to munch on is essential for preserving their pearly whites, but it’s only half the battle. The other lies in implementing a solid oral hygiene routine. Not only will this involve maintaining a well-balanced, vitamin-rich diet, but it’ll also include cleaning their teeth every day with proper techniques. Be sure to encourage them to brush twice a day for two minutes, floss daily (especially before bedtime), and avoid bad oral habits like biting their fingernails. Schedule their second dental checkup and cleaning if you haven’t already, that way their dentist can address any developing issues early on.
Your child doesn’t have to spend Halloween without enjoying some candy. Keep these few tips in mind, and you’ll be sure that they can enjoy a healthier smile in the long run!
About the Author
Dr. Susan Podray-Donovan earned her dental doctorate from Temple University and has been delivering outstanding care for over a decade. She also regularly seeks continuing education to expand her skills and expertise. She provides a wide range of advanced and comprehensive services, including dental checkups/cleanings, fluoride treatments, and gum disease therapy. If you’d like to schedule an appointment for your little one this spooky season, visit her website or call her at 678-456-5572.