Halloween is right around the corner! As spooks and specters take to the streets, your house is probably flooded with candy. While all this sugar is a treat for your taste buds, your dentist will tell you it isn't always so good for your teeth. But don't worry! You and your kids don't have to cut out the treats as long as you know the right tricks. Just follow a few simple steps, and you'll scare the cavities away.

How to Keep Your Teeth Ghostly White

1. Choose Your Candy Wisely

When you eat hard candy, you'll spend several minutes with sugar soaking into your teeth and growing the bacteria in your mouth. Skip the lollipops and hard candies, and choose treats like cookies, cupcakes, and soft candies that don't stay in your mouth as long.

2. Rinse Away the Sugar

Once you're done eating, have a glass of water. Water dilutes the sugars and acids in your mouth and helps remove food residue from your teeth, making it harder for the bacteria to do their work.

3. Avoid Stains

Sugar isn't the only danger from Halloween sweets. Watch out for candy and frosting which is dyed strong colors like black or red. Too many of these treats may stain your teeth, making them look dull and dingy. This is especially a problem if you have dental work, like tooth-colored fillings, which may pick up the color.

4. Time Your Brushing

Most of the time, brushing right after you eat is a great way to protect your teeth. Just watch out for acidic foods, like citrus fruits or sour candies—brushing too soon after eating them can wear away your enamel, so give it 30 minutes.

5. Schedule a Visit to the Dentist

If you or your kids are overdue for a dental care appointment, this is a great time to make one. Your kids' dentist can remind them why it's important to brush and provide a new toothbrush before the candy craze hits. Call in today to schedule and make sure your teeth are in good shape.

Cavities can be a problem around Halloween, but don't let the idea spook you. As long as you're careful with your dental care, you can keep smiling like a jack-o-lantern with your perfect, healthy teeth. J. Bryson McBratney, D.D.S. of Anchorage, AK, has provided quality dental care for over 30 years. When you visit his dentist's office, you'll receive a warm welcome and dedicated care for any dental condition. To schedule an appointment, call (907) 562-3323 or send a request online.