Goblins and ghouls aren’t the only scary part of Halloween. Ask any dentist, and they will tell you that trick-or-treating for all that cavity-causing candy is the real Halloween villain. Fortunately, you don’t have to deprive your child of this fun holiday. Dr. Robert Petrtyl in Cincinnati, OH, is here with a few tooth-friendly treat ideas the whole family can enjoy this year.

Sugar feeds bacteria in the mouth, creating acid that leads to cavities, root canals, or even tooth loss. To keep your child’s smile bright and healthy, try out these tasty, dentist-approved treats:

• Fruits & Veggies: Try caramel apples or banana “ghosts” with chocolate chip faces to cut down on sugar and stay festive this Halloween. You can also make a peeled orange look like a pumpkin by adding a green stem made of a small piece of sour straw candy. Even though many of these treats contain some sugar, they are much healthier for your child’s teeth and body than buckets of candy bars and Skittles.   
• Dairy: Cheese is not only delicious, but it’s also easy on your teeth. Cheese sticks, yogurt, and festive-shaped pizzas are all delicious ways to stay spirited this season. Add some spookiness by cutting your child’s pizza crust into the shape of a pumpkin, or use festive cookie cutters to add a fun spin on an otherwise everyday sandwich.  
• Xylitol Lollipops & More: Many lollipops, caramels, and other candies are made with Xylitol, a popular sugar-free sweetener that helps prevent cavities. Hand out these sweet classics on Halloween. 

Help your child maintain optimal oral health by visiting Cincinnati’s best pediatric dentistry practice. To schedule an appointment, call the practice of Dr. Robert Petrtyl today at (513) 554-4657. For more information, visit the dentist’s website.