It’s Halloween time, and that means that our homes are inundated with sweet treats! During this time of indulgence, our Toluca Lake dentists encourage you to keep your smile and oral health in mind. Today, we’re going to be talking about some of the things that you can do to prioritize your dental health this Halloween season.
As you probably already know, sugary candies and treats can lead to oral health problems down the road. Harmful oral bacteria feed on sugars and refined carbohydrates, so when we consume candy, we’re giving the oral bacteria in our mouths a boost.
So, what can you do?
- Limit your consumption of candy as much as possible
This one is a bit of a no-brainer; try not to consume too much candy throughout the day. Maybe set aside a few pieces to eat, and put the rest out of sight and out of mind.
- Considering donating
Many organizations collect Halloween candy after the 31st to send to the troops or other groups. This can be a great way to clear out some candy and share with others!
- Snack wisely
The oral bacteria in your mouth are active—feeding and growing—for about 20 to 30 minutes after you consume something. For this reason, it is best for your smile for you to satisfy your sweet tooth in a short, defined period of time, rather than snacking throughout the day.
- Protect your teeth from hard candies
When you chomp on hard candies or mints, you risk creating micro cracks and chips in your dental enamel. Make it a point to avoid chewing hard candies this Halloween, and your smile will thank you!
This Halloween, remember that there is nothing scarier than dental damage! Our Toluca Lake dentists are here to answer any questions that you may have, and to help you protect your smile the whole year through, so give us a call!