Halloween: A Dentists Worst Nightmare?

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candyHalloween is coming up and kids are already getting excited about it. They are discussing costume ideas, planning their trick-or-treating route, and anticipating barrels of candy. You may think that Halloween is a dentist’s worst nightmare, but there are ways of getting around that. Read on as your Sheridan dentists, Dr. Cody Coon, Dr. Justin Coon, and Dr. Donald Coon, suggest alternatives to Halloween candy.

The Effects of Candy

It’s important to practice good dental hygiene all year long, but especially during the holidays, beginning with Halloween. Your mouth harbors bacteria that are harmful to your oral health. It is called streptococcus mutans and it feasts on sugar. Brushing your teeth removes sugars and starches left over from candy and other foods, but particularly candy during Halloween. When sugar remains on your teeth it attracts the harmful bacteria streptococcus mutans which feeds on them and in the process breaks them down into enamel eating acids which cause tooth decay. If you’re worried about your children eating too much candy during Halloween, ration it over the next several weeks. You can pack a few pieces in their school lunches, allow them a piece or two as an after school snack, and then another couple pieces after dinner. Make sure they brush twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste and floss once a day.

Save Their Teeth

Also, instead of giving out candy this Halloween, try one or a few of the following:

  • Stickers
  • Temporary tattoos
  • Halloween pencils
  • Bouncy balls
  • Party favors
  • Miniature Slinkys
  • Miniature bubbles
  • Miniature cans of Playdoh
  • Little bouncy balls
  • Sugar free gum

These are simply a few suggestions. Let your imagination run wild. Browse the party isle or craft section of your stores to find inexpensive gifts that kids will love and save their teeth.

About your Sheridan Dentists

Dr. Coon wants to make your dental appointment as worry-free and comfortable as possible. If you have any questions about your appointment, or to schedule a visit, call Grinnell Street Dental in Sheridan, WY at 307-672-7567.