Have a Happy, Dental Healthy Halloween!

Halloween! One of the year’s most popular events. Dressing up, being creative, going to parties and of course, ‘Trick or Treating’, makes this a wonderful time of year. While the excitement of the holidays makes for happy and energetic kids, we have to remember that the excess consumption of sweets can wreak havoc on their dental health.

Cavities are the top dental concerns for kids. We at Pearl Boutique Dental Hygiene do not want to hamper their Halloween experience, but we do want to pass along helpful tips on how to help keep their teeth healthy during this holiday season.

What are Cavities?

Cavities are tiny holes in the hard surface of the teeth, and one of the top dental related issues facing children. They are most often caused by bacteria and a build up of dental plaque on the teeth’s surface which ends up creating acid out of sugar. Any tooth can get a cavity but the first places to decay are on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth.

Why Children’s Dental Hygiene is important

With regular brushing and flossing, the removal of buildup can prevent costly and painful experiences later on. Children should be brushing their teeth for at least 2 minutes twice a day. If they are under the age of 6, parents may have to supervise or brush their teeth for them until they are able to do a thorough enough job.

Being on top of your kids’ teeth cleaning routine is the #1 way to minimize dental related issues. We want kids to share in the responsibility of keeping their teeth clean. Sometimes additional guidance along with professional appointments is needed.

Sweet Tooth Alternatives

With the upcoming holiday season, it may be harder for kids to avoid cavity causing candies and treats; however, healthier and dental friendly alternatives can be found. In addition to enjoying sweets, these items may help combat cravings.

• low glycemic fruits (blackberries, blueberries, and raspberries)
• trail mix, with nuts
• sugar free candies
• yogurt
• frozen bananas
• cheese sticks
• unsweetened applesauce
• dried fruits with no sugar added
• crunchy vegetables and dip
• granola bars

Tips for a Dental Safe Halloween

To minimize cavities or other dental related issues from popping up, we would recommend:

Eating candy close to meal times. Increased Saliva production during meals helps to wash away bacteria and damaging sugars.

Eat Dinner before Trick or Treating. This helps to minimize snacking and cravings, while trick or treating.

Minimize the intake of Caramels and other Sticky Sweets. Caramel and Taffy are incredibly sticky and stick to the teeth’s surface, allowing sugar sit for long periods of time eats its way through enamel between brushings.

Reduce Sugary Drinks. This includes soda, flavored waters and sports drinks. When teeth come in frequent contact with beverages that contain sugar, the risk of tooth decay is increased.

Drink plenty of water. Drinking water helps clean the teeth and gums and minimizes the build-up of bacteria.

Stay on top of the daily maintenance.  Every hour that sugar stays on their teeth is a higher chance of it eating through protective layers.

Pre-Book your Dentist Appointments. It is important for kids to visit their dentist regularly to maintain the health of their teeth.  Plan your kids’ Dental Cleanings around their school breaks but book early because space during those times tend to fill up quickly.

Happy Halloween!