Trick, Don’t Treat, Tooth Decay

For many people, Halloween is a fun holiday. Kids (and some adults) dress up in costumes, and candy is given freely to trick-or-treaters.

We certainly remember how much we enjoyed this holiday as children. We hope you can have a happy, fun, and cavity-free Halloween, too. With that in mind, we are sharing a few tips so you can keep your teeth free from tooth decay. That can help you continue celebrating for many years to come.

In the meantime, remember to visit Groth Dental for regular dental checkups. Call 248-885-8247 to plan your next appointment at our office in Bingham Farms, MI.

Stay Aware Of What You Eat

We understand the temptation that candy can provide, for children and grown-ups.

One of the most obvious is to limit how much candy people eat. Have a few pieces of something sweet after a meal is reasonable. After a meal, your mouth is already creating saliva, which can help to rinse away food particles.

That’s important because the bacteria that cause cavities use sugars in the things we eat. When those sugars cling to your teeth, that gives bacteria a bigger opportunity to cause decay. That’s why the type of candy you eat can matter, too.

Sticky treats are among the worst for your smile. This includes things like caramels, fruit snacks, and gummy treats. Sour candies can be problematic for a different reason. Many of these contain acids, which can weaken the enamel of your teeth.

Chocolates are less sticky and are easier to remove or rinse off your teeth. Dark chocolate also has antioxidants, which may keep bacteria from sticking to teeth. Sugar-free gum with xylitol can help in another way. Chewing this can encourage non-acidic bacteria growth, reducing the risk of plaque forming on your teeth.

Follow These Tips

As we noted above, eating sweet treats after a meal can make it easier to rinse away food particles. It’s also a good idea to drink a glass of water while you are eating any sweet treat, whether it’s Halloween candy, a homemade brownie, or a piece of birthday cake.

It’s also a good idea to brush your teeth shortly after enjoying a sweet treat. Scrubbing your teeth with fluoride toothpaste is another excellent way to remove food pieces that may be clinging to your teeth.

Remember The Basics

Fighting tooth decay is an ongoing issue for everyone. Whether it’s Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any other time of year, you need to remember the basics of good oral care.

Brush your teeth twice per day for two minutes each time. Be sure to clean your teeth on all sides.

Floss between your teeth daily to clean the spaces your toothbrush doesn’t reach.

And get professional dental cleanings and exams for every member of your family. Scheduling routine visits to Groth Dental a couple of times each year can make a big difference in your oral health.

If you haven’t scheduled your next appointment yet, today is a good day to plan a visit with us in Bingham Farms, MI. Fill out our online form or call 248-885-8247.