As dentists like to remind parents around this time of year, children don’t have to eat a copious amount of candy to enjoy Halloween. Dressing up and going trick-or-treating is plenty of fun without chowing down on sugar-laden treats afterward. If your kids spend hours traipsing around the neighborhood, though, you can be sure they’ll want to eat some of the treats they collected. To protect their baby teeth from cavities and decay, use this guide to filter their candy. 

Candies to Enjoy

Naturally, candy that doesn't contain any sugar is the least likely to wreak havoc on your children’s teeth. Sugar-free hard candy and lollipops can even contribute to oral health by stimulating the production of saliva, which rinses away food particles and bacteria. Bubblegum containing xylitol will do the same.

Dark chocolate is also a reasonable choice for a sweet treat. Not only does it have a lower sugar content than most candies, but it also helps prevent tooth decay. If your kids find dark chocolate too bitter, milk chocolate that contains nuts is also a safe bet. It’s less likely to leave a sticky film on the teeth because the nuts scrape it away.

Candies to Avoid 

Avoid anything that can stick to the teeth because the particles left behind will serve as a breeding ground for bacteria. This includes chewy candies like taffy and gummy worms.

Sour candy also contributes to decay. Its acid can eat away at enamel, making baby teeth more vulnerable to cavities. 

In addition to limiting your children’s consumption of cavity-causing candies, protect their baby teeth with regular cleanings and exams at Pedodontic Associates Inc. With offices on Oahu and Maui, this family dentist practice specializes in treating infants, children, and adolescents. They offer over 25 years of experience and know how to put even the fussiest patients at ease. Visit their website to learn more about their friendly providers. To make an appointment, call (808) 735-1733 for Honolulu, (808) 487-7933 for Aiea, or (808) 877-0066 for Kahului.