A Healthy Halloween: Dental Do’s & Don’ts

Most people don’t think a healthy Halloween is possible. While dressing up is a major component, children often look forward to counting and sorting their favorite types of candy after a night of trick or treating.

When I was a child I can remember coming home and picking out my favorite treats to enjoy over the next few days. My brother and I would even trade as if the candy were baseball playing cards. I’ve long since grown up, and now as a pediatric dentist one would think I have nightmares about the holiday, but I don’t.

A Healthy Halloween for Your Kids

The candy consumed at Halloween is only a small part of a big picture in regards to cavities. How we care for our children’s teeth the rest of the year plays a much larger role in their oral health. Establishing a healthful diet and positive daily brushing and flossing routine help prevent cavities.

Children’s teeth should be brushed twice a day and flossed once per day. Limiting the number of sweets and sugary drinks (such as juice, chocolate milk, pop, soda, Gatorade) is also important. Eliminating sweets completely is an unrealistic expectation. It is perfectly acceptable for children to enjoy treats as long as it is in moderation.

Halloween Tips

• Snack in moderation. Try to have sweets and treats with a meal.
• Swish with water after snacking to help dislodge food particles.
• Sugar-free gum for older children can help stimulate salivary flow, a protective mechanism for the mouth.
• Brush for two minutes twice a day. Parents should supervise brushing until children are seven or eight.
• If your child hasn’t been to a pediatric dentist in a while or ever this is a great time to make an appointment.