Creative Commons image by Juushika Redgrave

It’s that time of year again! In just a few weeks, the kids will be out trick-or-treating and coming home with buckets of sweet, sticky treats that they’ll want to eat. Parents have differing philosophies on Halloween candy; some let the kids eat it all over the first week of November, and others ration it out, piece by piece, over the next month or two. Still others find ways to get rid of it so they and their kids aren’t tempted to snack themselves silly. No matter what you prefer to do, here are some tips that will help you keep your kids cavity-free this Halloween.

#1 Amp Up the Oral Hygiene Routine

This one should go without saying; if your kids are eating more candy than usual, make sure they’re brushing their teeth well! You can make this more fun by getting them new toothbrushes (perhaps spin brushes?) that aren’t to be used until after trick-or-treating. By the time the novelty of the new brushes wears off, maybe the candy will be gone, too. Be sure to help them floss, too, if you aren’t already doing that.

#2 Sneak Out the Sticky Stuff

You are going to go through their candy anyway, so set aside the caramel and fruity chews. These tend to stay on the teeth, sometimes even after brushing. Instead, let them have the chocolate candy, which tend to melt away easily.

#3 Designate One Time Per Day for Indulging

Rather than letting your kids graze on candy all day long, try putting the candy bowl away and letting them have their treats just once per day, perhaps after lunch. This concentrates all of the sugar into one short time period. You can help them brush afterwards, then not worry about it until the next day.

#4 Give Them Sugar-Free Gum

If your kids are old enough to chew gum safely, let them chase their candy with a stick of gum. Sugar-free gum causes more saliva production, which can wash candy particles off of their teeth. This is a decent alternative to brushing, if you find yourself out and about. Many businesses keep candy out after Halloween, so if your kids want to indulge, having gum in your purse lets them do so without raising their chances of developing cavities.

#5 Remember to Follow These Rules Yourself

Let’s be honest, here: You’re going to be eating some of this candy, too, most likely! Be sure to pay attention to your own oral hygiene needs during this sticky, sugary time. It sets a good example and keeps you out of the dental chair unnecessarily!

If you or your children are due for cleanings, having one done shortly after Halloween can be a great strategy! Call us today to schedule your next routine cleaning and exam.