From costumes to candy, Halloween is a ton of fun for the whole family. However, the sweet treats given out can be detrimental to your little one’s dental health, as they contribute to bacteria growth and tooth decay. Here’s what dentists want you to know about protecting your kids’ teeth from sugary sweets this holiday season.

What Dentists Recommend for Parents During Halloween 

Be Wary of Sticky and Hard Candy 

Sticky and gummy candies easily get caught in between teeth and are difficult to remove with a toothbrush. As the candy sits on your teeth, bacteria and plaque build-up and can lead to cavities. Hard candy, on the other hand, is dangerous to eat and can chip or crack a tooth. 

Stay Away From Sour Candies 

Not only are sour candies covered in large amounts of sugar, but the flavoring in them is often highly acidic. This acidity weakens and decays the enamel of teeth and can speed up the process that creates cavities.

Treats in Moderation 

Halloween trick-or-treating is a ton of fun, but overconsumption of candies can not only make your kid sick, but it can also lead to an abundance of bacteria and plaque. Every time your child eats another piece of candy, they are introducing more sugar and acidity to their teeth and speeding up the spread of bacteria and decay. Candy should be passed out in moderation and monitored to keep children's teeth safe. 

Brush and Floss After Enjoying Sweets 

Sugar and acid from candy can lead to decay in less than half an hour after consumption. Encourage your child to brush and floss after each time they consume Halloween candy. This helps control plaque buildup and can even remove some of the sticky pieces stuck between teeth before they can do significant damage. 

Make sure your children’s teeth are in top shape during Halloween with a visit to an experienced dentist at North Bullitt Family Dental in Shepherdsville, KY. Their compassionate, friendly staff and state-of-the-art equipment ensure you and your family's dental needs will be met with precision and care. Whether it’s crowns and bridges, veneers, tooth extractions, or other specialized cosmetic dentistry, you’ll be in and out of the office with a smile you can feel confident in. Make an appointment today, either online or by calling (502) 955-1606.