(Cupventi.com) – In the United States, around 35 million children participate in trick-or-treating during Halloween each year. Research indicates that each child may consume up to three cups of sugar from the candy they gather.
While no candy is particularly good for dental health, certain types are more detrimental than others, as noted by Dr. Kevin Sands, a certified cosmetic dentist based in Beverly Hills, California.
Dr. Sands shared with Fox News Digital the types of Halloween candy that should be consumed in moderation or avoided entirely.
- Hard candies:
Jawbreakers and suckers can cause significant damage to teeth, posing a risk of chipping or cracking when bitten too hard. Additionally, their prolonged presence in the mouth provides a lengthy sugar feast for bacteria, potentially leading to cavities. - Sticky or gummy candies:
Taffy and caramels can be particularly problematic due to their sticky nature, making them difficult to remove from the teeth even after brushing. The sugar residues left behind can encourage bacteria growth and tooth decay. - Sour candies:
Sour candies, while appealing in taste, can be highly acidic. Many have a pH level dangerously close to battery acid, and continual exposure to such acidity can break down enamel, causing sensitivity and other dental issues. - Sugar-free candies:
Despite being sugar-free, some of these candies contain citric acid, which can still wear down enamel, albeit without the sugar content. - Chewy candies:
Chewy candies like nougat and toffee can adhere to the teeth, creating an environment where harmful bacteria thrive. These bacteria can then produce acids that erode enamel and cause tooth decay.
For those looking for less harmful candy options that are gentler on teeth, Dr. Sands recommends the following choices:
- Chocolate:
Among candies, chocolate is generally considered a slightly safer option as it dissolves quickly and is less likely to get stuck between teeth. - Powdered candy:
Powdered candies dissolve rapidly in the mouth and don’t linger on the teeth for extended periods, reducing the risk of tooth decay. - Smarties:
This type of candy quickly dissolves, minimizing the time sugar is in contact with the teeth. - Yogurt-covered raisins:
While they do contain sugar, yogurt-covered raisins are less sticky than caramel or toffee-based candies. - Nuts:
Nuts, such as almonds or peanuts, have minimal sugar content and are a better choice for dental health. - Mini packs of popcorn:
Plain or lightly salted popcorn can be a less sugary option compared to many other candies. - Sugar-free gum:
Sugar-free gum can promote dental health by stimulating saliva production, which helps neutralize acids and cleanse the mouth.
To promote optimal dental health and hygiene in children, Dr. Sands recommends the following tips:
- Encourage regular brushing and flossing: Teach children to brush their teeth at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste, and encourage flossing once a day to remove food particles and plaque.
- Use fluoride toothpaste: Choose an age-appropriate fluoride toothpaste to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent tooth decay.
- Encourage water consumption: Water helps rinse the mouth and neutralize acids produced by bacteria after consuming candy or snacks.
- Promote healthy snacks: Opt for healthier snack options like fruits, vegetables, cheese, and nuts, which are nutritious and less harmful to dental health.
- Schedule regular dental check-ups: Regular dental check-ups allow professionals to detect early signs of issues and provide guidance on proper oral care. Additionally, providing alternatives like small toys or non-edible treats can be a great way to enjoy Halloween without compromising dental health.