Halloween can be a spooky time for your teeth — and not just from ghosts and ghouls! Research shows that emergency dentist visits spike by 80% on Halloween compared to other October days, with many dental issues arising from candy consumption. Dr. Priya Mistry, a dentist from Vancouver, Washington, highlights five “red flag” candies that could lead to dental damage:
- Hard Candies: Candies like Jolly Ranchers and Lifesavers can chip or crack your teeth if bitten too hard.
- Sticky Caramels and Toffees: These can pull out fillings, break crowns, and even damage braces.
- Sour Candies: Sour treats like Warheads and Sour Patch Kids can erode tooth enamel due to their high acid content, making teeth more vulnerable to decay.
- Gummies: These can stick between your teeth, allowing bacteria more time to feed on the sugar and cause cavities.
- Jawbreakers: These can crack teeth and lead to jaw fatigue or exacerbate TMJ (temporomandibular joint) issues.
Tips for Enjoying Halloween Safely:
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- Implement a candy “budget” to limit consumption.
- Encourage eating candy with meals to boost saliva production, which helps wash away sugar.
- Consider a candy “buy-back” program to trade excess candy for toys or privileges.
- Maintain a consistent brushing and flossing routine to protect your teeth.
Dr. Mistry advises moderation and awareness when indulging in Halloween sweets, while pediatrician Dr. Andrew Elliston suggests using Halloween as an opportunity to teach kids self-regulation when it comes to sweets. Moderation is key to keeping both your stomach and teeth happy this Halloween!
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