We all know that to some extent Halloween and all that trick or treating means lots of candy and all that candy can't be good for our kids teeth so how do we go about enjoying the fun that is Halloween while still making sure our kids teeth aren't decaying with every bite. Dr. James Hickman of Metropolitan Pediatric Dental Association had these tips to offer:
1. Be safe and have fun, first and foremost. Halloween is supposed to be fun!
2. Help your kids sort their candy and try to eliminate the items that aren't so good on their teeth. Specifically, sticky items have a higher cavity potential and promote sugar bugs and sour candy has a high acid content plus sugar which is an awful recipe for teeth. Some of the safer items for teeth include sugar free gum, dark chocolate and even items like pretzels and popcorn. While those can still get stuck in their teeth, they are less likely to cause cavities.
3. Limit treats. Have some on Halloween and then maybe bring the candy to work or to a local buy back program.
4. Brush and clean those teeth. Not just on Halloween but every day 2 times a day for 2 minutes.
5. For coloring pages, a candy sorting guide or even to locate a local pediatric dentist visit MyChildrensTeeth.org
How do you handle all that Halloween candy at your house? Do you donate it? Let the kids go crazy eating it? Eat it yourself or bring it to work?
