While most may think that the scariest parts of Halloween are the costumes or the decorations, the true monster of this holiday is smaller, inconspicuously packaged and everywhere: the candy! This time of year is when the average American eats a staggering 3.4 lbs. of candy— something which inevitably leads to a host of dental problems, ranging from toothaches to full on cavities. In fact, according to the dedicated professionals at Honolulu, central Oahu and Maui-based pediatric and adolescent dentist practice, Pedodontic Associates Inc., there may well be no more dangerous time of year for your kids’ teeth than Halloween.

So what do you need to know about candy and how it can affect your child's teeth?

• Haunting The Mouth: The actual amount of sugar in a piece of candy isn’t as much of a problem as the fact that it tends to linger in the mouth after consumption, feeding the bacteria that cause tooth decay. Hard candies, lollipops and the like are particularly scary because they extend exposure time.
• Craven Caramel: Because caramel and chewy candies stick to teeth for longer periods, they can be especially harmful; the mouth’s saliva has trouble breaking this stuff down.
• Taking A Bite Out Of Teeth: Another danger occurs because hard candies can chip or crack teeth, which can lead to accelerated enamel damage.
• The Sour Curse: Sour candies can be especially harmful because they are acidic, which breaks down enamel. This is particularly the case with younger children.

Of course, while it’s hard not to let the kids have some fun on Halloween, the pediatrics experts at Pedodontic Associates Inc. note that a little regulation— particularly an emphasis on oral hygiene— will ensure that their smiles will look as good as their costumes.

To learn more about children and adolescent dentistry, as well as the services performed by this practice, be sure to check out their website. Don’t be frightened this Halloween: call the Honolulu location at (808) 735-1733, the Aiea office at (808) 487-7933 or their Kahului office at (808) 877-0066 to schedule an appointment today.