You don't need to be a children's dentist to know that any kind of hard candy can wreak havoc on a child's teeth. With the holidays just around the corner, candy canes will soon be catching the eyes of kids around the world, and these sweet minty treats, like all hard candy, pose a potential threat to young and developing teeth. To help mitigate this threat, below are some children's dentist-approved do's and don'ts for eating candy canes this holiday season.

Do:

Limit consumption.

When it comes to children and candy, "everything in moderation" is a good motto to stick to. Throughout the holidays, keep an eye on how much candy your child is consuming. Candy canes can be an addictive delicacy, especially the miniature ones, and before you know it, your child may have eaten more than their fair share.

Ensure regular brushing.

Pick up an unwrapped candy cane, and what's the first thing you notice? They're sticky. And that stickiness adheres to a child's teeth, where it can cause tooth decay. Make sure your child brushes thoroughly after every piece of candy.

Don't:

Bite down.

Discourage your child from biting down on candy canes. That same sugar that makes the canes sticky makes them firm and rock-solid. With biting down comes the risk of chipping a tooth or knocking a loose tooth out completely.

Forget to see a children's dentist regularly.

A children's dentist will help protect your child's teeth from the ravages of candy canes. If your child experiences dental issues from holiday candy, always see a dentist as soon as possible. At least twice a year, schedule regular exams with a dentist so your child can learn good oral health care habits and have their teeth monitored by a professional.

There's no reason your child can't enjoy the odd candy cane this holiday season; just be prepared to impart some smart dental wisdom along with the sweets. For all your child's toothcare needs, trust children's dentist Brandi Prather, DMD, PSC. Dr. Prather and her dental practice offer the children of Pulaski County, Kentucky, comprehensive services including exams, cleanings, and tooth fillings. Schedule an exam by calling (606) 679-5437 or messaging them on Facebook.