Halloween can be a scary time to visit the dentist!
With so much candy lying around the house at Halloween, your teeth are susceptible to decay caused by excess amounts of sugar.
The team at Kent Street Dental Centre in Ottawa can help you manage your sugar intake, and the effects it has on your oral health.
Excess amounts of sugar can cause a cavity in your or your child's teeth. Learn about the effects of sugar on your kid's teeth, and help them stay cavity-free during Halloween.What does sugar do to your teeth?
Sugary foods feed the bacteria that grow in your mouth. The bacteria turns sugar into acids which can eat away at the enamel in your teeth.
What types of sugar and candies should I avoid at Halloween?
You should avoid candies that are sticky, like caramel, as they stick to your teeth. Also, candies that are hard stay in your mouth longer than others which can create an opportunity to feed the bacteria.
What snacks are good for my oral health?
Mix in healthy snacks with their candies. Foods like apples, pears, cheese, and leafy greens all have different benefits for your children’s teeth.
How do I help my kids maintain their oral health at Halloween?
Restrict the number of candies they eat per day and ask them to rinse after eating sweets. As well, make sure they brush each morning, as well as brush and floss at night.
When should my child visit the dentist?
Your child should visit the dentist once every 6 months, just like you. However, depending on their level of treatment needed, they may be required to visit more often.