Halloween is just around the corner, and we wanted to remind you that not all candy is created equal when it comes to your child’s oral health. Some candies are better than others for teeth, and here are a few to avoid as well as a few better options to embrace when it comes to Halloween candy.
Of course, we don’t advocate that children should eat large amounts of sugary candy, but we do understand that at this time of year a bit of candy is certainly expected.
Worst Halloween Candy Options
Chewy and sticky treats are the worst candy options for cavities. Halloween treats such as gummies, taffy and dried fruit are dangerous. These chewy treats are more likely to stick in the crevices between teeth and can become a serious cause of tooth decay.
Sour candies are high in acid, which can break down tooth enamel quickly. Fortunately saliva will help to balance the level of acid in the mouth eventually.
Sugary snacks like cookies, cake and candy corn all contain high levels of sugar, which can lead to tooth decay.
Better Halloween Candy Options
Sugar-free Lollipops and hard candies can stimulate saliva to help prevent dry mouth. Dry mouth allows plaque to build up, so these candies can actually be good for your child’s mouth.
Sugar-free gum both increases saliva and dislodges food particles from between teeth.
Dark chocolate can be good for the heart and may even lower blood pressure.
Monitor your child’s Halloween candy consumption and keep an eye out for some of these better options. Hopefully some of the houses on your trick-or-treat routes offer some healthier options for your children.
Source: Know Your Teeth, “Best and Worst Halloween Candy Options for Children’s Teeth”
