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Halloween brings spooky fun to kids of all ages, but it’s also known for providing huge amounts of candy that increase the risk of tooth decay. To protect your little one’s smile, pediatric dentists suggest taking these three steps.

How to Protect Your Child’s Dental Health This Halloween

1. Choose the Right Candy

The longer your child’s teeth are exposed to sugar, the greater the risk of tooth decay. That’s why your trick-or-treater should donate or throw away lollipops and other hard candies that must be sucked as well as chewy, sticky candies, like caramels and taffy, which can get stuck in the teeth’s crevices. Also, steer clear of sour candy, as the acidity can erode the teeth’s enamel and leave them more vulnerable to decay.

Instead, let your little one enjoy sugar-free candy and chocolate, which can be swallowed quickly and is less sticky than other treats.

2. Save Candy for Mealtimes 

pediatric dentistEating promotes saliva production, which helps wash away sugar that contributes to tooth decay. Instead of letting your kids graze on their candy throughout the day, have them eat it during or just after meals. For extra protection, serve meals with water rather than sugary drinks like juice and soda. 

3. Maintain Your Child’s Dental Care Routine

While you should always pay attention to your child’s oral hygiene routine, pediatric dentists recommend being extra vigilant during the candy-filled Halloween season. Make sure your little one brushes their teeth at least twice a day for two minutes. Use an ADA-approved toothpaste, and replace the toothbrush if its bristles are frayed or if your child has used it for over three months.

Your child should also floss at least once a day to remove plaque from between the teeth and beneath the gum line that a toothbrush simply cannot reach. Help younger children who can’t perform these tasks on their own yet. 

 

To protect your child’s teeth and gums all year long, turn to the team at Pedodontic Associates. They’ve provided comprehensive dental care to children on Oahu and Maui for over 25 years. Learn more about their commitment to gentle, stress-free dentistry online. To schedule an appointment, call (808) 735-1733 for the Honolulu location, (808) 487-7933 for Aiea, and (808) 877-0066 for Kahului. 

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