DENTAL TIPS FOR A HEALTHY HALLOWEEN!

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Dentists don’t hate candy, but they aren’t bigfans of tooth decay either. Following a few simple guidelines will help youenjoy your Halloween bounty and keepa healthy mouth.
Here aresome healthy Halloween tips from the Idaho State Dental Association, shared byDr. Shepard, DDS:

• ConsumeHalloween candy with meals – Saliva production increases during meals,neutralizing acids produced by bacteria in the mouth and helping rinse awayfood particles.

• Avoid hard candy and other sweets thatstay in the mouth for a long time – Candies that need to be sucked down for a longperiod of time subject teeth to prolonged acid attack, increasing the risk fortooth decay.

• Avoid sticky candiesthat cling to your teeth – Taffyand gummy bears take longer to get washed away by saliva, increasing the riskfor tooth decay.  

• Better to eat twopieces at once than separately over the day – It is the frequency that is the most importantfactor in tooth decay, not the quantity. This helps limit exposure to acidsthat are left on teeth after eating.

• Brushdaily: 2 minutes, 2 times a day – Now more than ever,it’s important you brush a minimum of twice a day for two minutes. This can saveyou from severe tooth pain later.

Tips forKids with Braces:
Braces don’t mix well with some kinds of candy—chewytreats can damage braces and lengthen treatment time. But that doesn’t meanchildren with braces have to miss out on the Halloween fun. Here are some specialtips for those who have braces this Halloween:

• Kidswith braces can still enjoy soft, easy-to-chew treatssuch as: melt-in-your-mouth chocolates, peanut butter cups, etc.

• Rinse, brush, and floss after yourHalloween outings. This shoulddislodge any candy stuck in the braces. This is also a great tip for everyone,not just someone with braces.

• Make treats that everyone canenjoy. You canfind several dental-friendly recipes and resources online.

NotEvery Halloween Treat Has to Be Sweet:

• Looking for a candy alternative? The American Dental Associationteamed up to help teach kids of all ages about good oral hygiene. Check out www.stopzombiemouth.com for fun freebies likeprintable zombie masks, coloring pages, and more! It’s a fun alternative to candy,and it’s free!.

For more dental-friendly tips,please visit the Idaho State Dental Association’s Facebook page or visit your local dentist.

• Follow the ISDA on twitter: @The_ISDA

• Like the ISDA on Facebook: Idaho State Dental Association