When your kids suddenly eat more candy than usual, which typically is the case following Halloween, this can increase the risk of tooth decay. But we want to offer a few tips to help them avoid cavities after their Halloween adventure. In today’s blog, your Kansas City, MO, dentist talks about avoiding cavities during Halloween and the coming holiday season!
The Link Between Sugar and Cavities
When kids complete their trick or treating, they will come home with a sack filled with sugary sweets. When kids eat a ton of candy, this leaves bits of sugar on and between the teeth. This is especially true if the candies are sticky and contain ingredients like caramel. harmful oral bacteria will then eat these particles, breaking them down to cause a rise in oral acidity and to also coat the teeth in a sticky layer of plaque. Over time, this layer hardens into tartar and cannot be removed with brushing and flossing alone. The layers will weaken and erode the outer enamel to cause tooth decay.
You can help reduce the risk of tooth decay by limiting how much candy your children consume, or even giving them the chance to trade it in to you for a small amount of money or a toy. They should eat their daily candy just after dinner, when elevated saliva production can help rinse away the particles. Drinking a glass of water with them is helpful too. Should your home be the one passing out candy this year, consider fun and sugar-free options like Halloween-style temporary tattoos, stickers, and party favors.
Helping with Children’s Dentistry
Our team offers children’s dentistry to help lower the risk of tooth decay. For example, if you bring them in for a checkup and cleaning, we can conduct a cleaning to remove all plaque and tartar buildup and polish the teeth, which helps keep cavities at bay. We could also apply a fluoride varnish in seconds to strengthen the outer enamel. With dental sealants, we coat the rear teeth, which are hard for kids to reach when they brush and floss, with an acrylic layer. This prevents food and drink particles from being stuck on or between the teeth, and sealants can stay in place for years to come!
Better Brushing and Flossing
You should also make sure your kids are caring for their smiles at home in between these checkup and cleaning visits. Children should brush twice a day for two minutes, and floss every evening!
Schedule An Appointment for Your Little Ones With Our Team
We can help kids enjoy Halloween and also enjoy a lowered risk of tooth decay. To schedule an appointment with the team at Delightful Dental Care in Kansas City, MO, call our office today at 816-942-7669.