Your children’s dentist in Springfield doesn’t only want your children to have fun this Halloween. Dr. Olson also wants them to enjoy the treats, but also take precautions to help maintain their healthy smiles and avoid cavities. Read on to find out what is recommended.
How Does Tooth Decay Happen?
Before we address the question of what you can do to help prevent cavities this Halloween, let’s first examine how tooth decay happens in the first place. Did you know that about 90 percent of all foods contain sugar or starches? These two ingredients feed oral bacteria that produce acids. When these acids attack enamel, there can be tooth mineral loss, which can eventually lead to a cavity.
Therefore, if your children lick lollipops or sip on sugary drinks, they are more susceptible to decay because these treats allow acids to attack teeth the entire time the sweets are in their mouths.
Eat Sweets with a Meal
One solution to the problem of acid attack is to have your children enjoy their Halloween treats with a meal rather than as a separate snack. This will mitigate the presence of bacteria.
Offer Healthy Snacks Along with Sweet Treats
When your children ask for one of their Halloween treats, be sure to offer a healthy snack, too. These include:
- Fresh fruits
- Veggie sticks and hummus
- Cheese
- Yogurt
- Cottage Cheese
- Hard-boiled Eggs
Once again, the idea is to avoid allowing your children to have candy or a sugary drink without any other kind of food. And if your children are genuinely hungry, then one of these other snacks is sure to be more satisfying.
Water, Water Everywhere
Mini water bottles are actually a great Halloween treat. Kids love them and they are the perfect side to any snack. Water, of course, is essential for proper hydration. But in addition, water rinses away debris that can become stuck on or in between teeth. Always offer water when your children are eating.
Proper Oral Hygiene
Of course, brushing and flossing are essential all year-round. However, at Halloween the practice becomes even more important. Make sure your children brush at least twice a day for two minutes at a time. If possible, have them brush immediately after eating any Halloween candy. Like adults, children should floss at least once a day.
Your family dentist in Springfield wishes you and your family a safe, fun and smiley Halloween!
Meet the Doctor
Dr. Olson is a dentist in Springfield. He and his team offer comprehensive dentistry to patients of all ages. Call our office today