The Halloween season is here! Which means the sudden surge of sugary treats and pumpkin spice lattes could lead to cavities, threatening smiles of all ages. But we have a few tips! In today’s blog, your Ankeny, IA, dentist talks about how to avoid the onset of tooth decay during the Halloween season.
How Halloween Treats Cause Cavities
How does the sugar in our favorite Halloween candies and sweets threaten our teeth and gums? When we consume foods and drinks with a lot of sugar, this leaves behind particles on or between the teeth. Harmful bacteria then break these down, a process that creates a sticky bacterial byproduct known as plaque, which coats the teeth. Plaque buildup, which hardens with time into tartar, then weakens outer enamel to cause cavities. This could also irritate and inflame the gums, so older teens and adults have a higher risk of gingivitis and gum disease. But you can take a few steps to help limit the risk of cavities following Halloween and the holiday season, which is also a sugar-inundated time of the year.
Tips for Avoiding Tooth Decay
First, try to limit how many sweets you eat a day. Don’t go crazy, and instead just have one or two pieces after dinner, which elevates saliva production can help rinse away the sugar particles. You can help further by following with a glass of water. You also need to brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes with a fluoride toothpaste, as fluoride helps strengthen the outer enamel. Flossing before bed is also essential. You can also give your children the chance to trade in their excess candies for a fun activity, trip, or toy. If you are the ones handing out candy in the neck of the wood, consider sugar-free treats or opt for party favors and sugar-free selections!
Help From Our Team
You should consider a checkup with our team, so we can examine your smilers and if we find any evidence of a cavity, we can offer a filling to stop discomfort and prevent infection. In the same visit, we will remove all layers of plaque and tartar by cleaning the teeth, which further protects your smile from tooth decay and periodontal concerns. For kids, we can also offer fluoride treatments and dental sealants to help protect teeth from decay. These both take seconds to apply, and can provide protection for smiles.
If you have any questions about protecting smiles of all ages from Halloween cavities, then contact our team.
Dental Impressions Provides Cavity Prevention
We want to help kids and adults enjoy their spooky fun without the onset of cavities. To schedule an appointment to safeguard your family’s smiles, then call Dental Impressions in Ankeny, IA today at (515) 965-0230.
