Typically, Halloween is a time for sugary treats. However, foods that contain sugar can contribute to tooth decay. The Pennsylvania Dental Association (PDA) has some tips on keeping teeth healthy this Halloween.
Instead of passing out the traditional Halloween candy, try handing out non-food items like crayons, rubber balls, coins, activity sheets or stickers. Visit PDA's Web site at www.padental.org for activity sheets to download.
Pass out "teeth-friendly" treats, such as sugarless gum, peanuts or popcorn. Avoid decay-causing foods like hard candy and especially avoid sticky foods, like dried fruits or crackers. Raisins and granola bars rank among the most dangerous foods because they stick to teeth, giving enamel-destroying acids time to attack. Snacks should be limited because each time you eat foods containing carbohydrates, acid attacks your teeth for at least 20 minutes. Repeated attacks may cause the enamel to break down, eventually resulting in cavities.
Foods that are eaten as part of a meal may pose less of a threat to your teeth. Saliva produced during the meal helps neutralize acid production and rinse food particles from the mouth. Chewing sugarless gum also increases saliva flow, rinsing food from your mouth.
The most important tip in maintaining healthy teeth and gums is to brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, especially after eating. Floss your teeth daily to remove food particles stuck between teeth. And remember to visit your PDA-member dentist regularly.
