For many people, adults and children alike, the best part of Halloween is the candy. Dentists, on the other hand, dread the effects of sugary treats on their patients' teeth. While they might be delicious, hard candies can break teeth and braces, while soft ones stick to the enamel and cause cavities. Instead, professionals recommend the following healthier alternatives.

Halloween Treats Your Dentist Wishes You Would Eat

1. Sugar-Free Gum

Kids in particular often love the sweet taste of gum, so feel free to hand it out this year—as long as it's sugar-free. That way, it won't contribute to cavities and other oral health issues. Furthermore, chewing gum boosts saliva production, which will help wash away the acids and sugars that might be on trick or treaters' teeth already.

2. Pretzels or Popcorn

These salty treats are a fun alternative to candy, and it's easy to buy small, individual bags you can give away or consume yourself. Not only are they devoid of unhealthy sugars that plague other Halloween candies, but chewing these hard foods may even clean extra sugars off of teeth. If you're looking to make them even healthier, buy options without extra butter or an overabundance of salt.

3. Dark Chocolate

Surprisingly, this sweet treat is oral health professional approved. Dark chocolate contains healthy antioxidants that will boost your immune system and are good for your heart. Additionally, chocolate won't stick to your teeth the same way other candies might. All you need to do is brush shortly after you enjoy it.

To make sure your teeth aren’t damaged by Halloween candy, schedule an appointment with a dentist at North Bullitt Family Dental. The Shepherdsville, KY, practice uses only the most advanced tools and techniques to care for their patients’ health and offers extended office hours to make getting the necessary work done simple. To learn more about their variety of offerings, visit their website, and call (502) 955-1606 to schedule an appointment.