Halloween is often an exciting day for children. However, as far as the children’s oral health is concerned, then this day can be the worst too! Consumption of sugar candies can impact the tooth enamel of your child. It also leaves their teeth prone to cavities and decay. The best way to protect your child’s teeth is to follow a few tips, including setting a limit for the consumption of sugar candies, encouraging extra brushing, etc.
Choose healthy food
Before beginning the festivities, ensure that you and your family consume a balanced meal. A healthy meal should consist of food rich in complex carbs and lean protein that can provide sustained energy. By eating food with simple carbs, you or your children may not have the energy while walking around or going to a party, and there is a greater possibility of you reaching the candy bar for snacks. Children will feel less tempted to reach for candy by eating a healthy meal. Ask your pediatric dental specialists about what to eat as part of a balanced meal.
Wisely choose your candy
Certain candies are better compared to others. Some may taste better than others, whereas some are good for teeth compared to others. Hard candies, gummies, toffee, and sticky sweets can affect tooth enamel by causing cavities. Chances of tooth decay are higher for those who consume such candies. The best candy is chocolate since it melts faster and is easier to wash away with water so that the chocolate does not stick to the teeth.
Upgrade from candy
Encourage your kids to make healthy choices. Tell them you will get them a toy in exchange for a bag full of candy. Thus the kids can maintain healthy teeth by avoiding candies without feeling bad. They can have a toy that lasts longer and gives them much-needed enjoyment and excitement.
Drink water
Water is excellent for your teeth, mouth, and overall health. It properly rinses away the sugar that is caught between the teeth. Furthermore, drinking water helps maintain balanced pH levels in the mouth, which otherwise remains unbalanced due to sugar.
Let your child chew sugar-free gum
Allowing your children to chew sugar-free gum helps increase the saliva flow that washes away the bacteria and acids present in the mouth after eating candy. Sugar-free gums consist of xylitol, which plays a crucial role in blocking the production of decay-causing acid in the teeth.
Brushing the teeth after eating candy
Brushing the teeth is one of the best ways to keep cavities at bay. Let your child brush their teeth as soon as they consume candies during the days after Halloween.
Limit consumption of candy
Refrain your child from eating too many sugary snacks throughout the day. Instead, let them have some with lunch or dinner. It would be best if you also prevent your child from eating a full-sized candy bar. Instead, ask them to have fun-sized candies with only a fraction of the sugars and calories compared to the candy bar.
Practice good oral hygiene routine
Follow a good oral hygiene routine to keep plaque and tartar from affecting your child’s teeth. Children should brush twice a day daily and floss, removing the food particles stuck between their teeth. Choose a healthy food option that can provide benefits for your teeth. Regular dental checkups by visiting a pediatric dental center are also important this Halloween to ensure that teeth, gums, jaw, and mouth do not have any dental problems. Children’s dental care will do the needful to ensure that your teeth and gums are in optimal health.
Keep these tips in mind before celebrating a great Halloween that is filled with joy and excitement. Make this Halloween season not only fun but also healthy.
