Halloween is one of the most anticipated times of the year for many kids. Not only do they get to dress up in their favorite costumes, but they also get to indulge in plenty of sweet treats. It's no secret, however, that too much candy can wreak havoc on a child's teeth and lead directly to the dentist's office. To help your child take care of their teeth this Halloween, follow these three tips.

Dental Care Tips for a Healthy Halloween

1. Practice Moderation

Just because a child pulled in a massive bucketful of candy doesn't mean they should have unfettered access to their stash of sweets. Moderation is key here. Set up boundaries around the candy; allot only a few pieces a day and at certain times. Aim for right after meals, as saliva production will be increased from mealtime and will help rinse the teeth of sugars.

2. Be Selective

It's also a good idea to go through your child's candy and remove anything that might present a problem. For instance, children with loose teeth will want to avoid anything particularly hard or sticky, like jawbreakers or caramels. Also, gummy snacks easily adhere to teeth surfaces and are not readily washed away by saliva, which means increased chances of tooth decay. A gummy or two won't hurt—just be sure the child brushes well afterward.

3. Follow Good Dental Care Practices

A child needs to be in the habit of brushing at least twice a day and flossing at least once. With the increased sugar load of a Halloween bounty, they should brush and floss after their daily allowance of candy. If you haven't yet done so, show your child proper brushing and flossing techniques, and have them rinse well with a fluoride mouthwash. Make routine, twice-yearly dentist visits a priority, and always get any tooth pain or sensitivity checked out as soon as possible.

Charles P. Debbane, DDS, is a dentist who has been serving Butler County, OH, for more than 25 years. He and Laura M. Arnold, DDS, provide comprehensive preventative, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry services. From exams and teeth cleaning to crowns and Invisalign®, they are dedicated to helping you and your family maintain bright and healthy smiles. Call (513) 887-6654 or visit their office's website to schedule an appointment with a dentist today.