Children and adults alike love Halloween. For kids, this is a chance to go around the neighborhood in costumes, collecting bags of candy. While nothing is wrong with the occasional sweets, too much candy can increase the risk of serious oral health issues, such as tooth decay and toothaches. Fortunately, you can help avoid toothaches this Halloween with a few preventive measures.
What Causes Tooth Decay?
Why do we develop cavities? A cavity forms when bacteria can reach the sensitive layers of dentin below the tooth enamel. This often occurs when the enamel erodes. The enamel can weaken and erode as a result of bacteria breaking down sugar particles, coating the teeth in plaque. By consuming foods and drinks high in sugar and other starches you increase the risk of tooth decay forming.
Limiting Your Candy
One way to avoid this issue is to limit the amount of candy your child consumes following his/her trick-or-treat expedition. You can let them have a few pieces with dinner, so they can wash them down with water and rinse away the sugar from the teeth. You could also offer to let them trade or sell their candy to you in exchange for a small toy. Other parents let their children donate candy to troops in programs like Operation Gratitude.
Caring for Your Smile
Along with limiting candy you can also take other steps to reduce the risk of tooth decay. First, encourage your child to brush their teeth thoroughly twice a day, once in the morning and again before bed. In addition, your child can floss before bed to remove sugar particles caught between the teeth. You may also bring them to a dentist for a dental cleaning every six months. If you have any questions about preventing tooth decay then please contact our office today.
ABOUT YOUR ASTORIA, NY, DENTIST:
Jeffrey Leibowitz, DDS, a native New Yorker, has welcomed patients and families from in and around Astoria, NY (including Queens, Manhattan, Brooklyn, and all surrounding communities) since opening his dental practice in 1991. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Leibowitz, call our office in Astoria today at 718-728-8320.
