With Halloween approaching in the United States and other parts of the world, Hurst Pediatric Dentistry is offering parents advice on promoting dental health during the holiday. As children prepare for seasonal trick-or-treating, they will collect a variety of sugary candies. A new report from the dental clinic provides guidance to help parents decide which treats are better for kids’ teeth—and which ones to avoid.
Drawing on its expertise, Hurst Pediatric Dentistry aims to strike a balance between Halloween fun and responsible dental care. The report clarifies that while it doesn’t discourage kids from enjoying sweets, certain candies are more harmful to dental health than others.
“Halloween is a magical time for kids, full of spooky fun and, of course, lots of candy,” the report notes. “But as a parent, you might be worried about how all those sugary treats can affect your child’s teeth. It’s no secret that certain candies can lead to cavities, and while you don’t want to ruin the fun, protecting your child’s oral health is a priority.”
The report warns against chewy, hard, and sour candies due to their potential harm to teeth. Regular consumption of these treats can lead to serious dental issues, including cavities. By limiting access to these types of candies, parents can help prevent tooth decay and avoid costly dental treatments.
Instead, Hurst Pediatric Dentistry suggests that chocolate and nut-based candy bars are healthier options for children.
Although these treats contain sugar, they don’t cling to teeth as much as other candies, reducing the risk of cavities.
Additionally, the report highlights the benefits of sugar-free gum, which can stimulate saliva production and aid in maintaining oral health.
The report concludes with expert tips on maintaining dental hygiene, emphasizing that awareness of dental care is especially important during Halloween. Parents are encouraged to ensure their children brush their teeth at least twice a day to combat plaque and bacteria buildup.
Following Halloween, parents can schedule dental checkups to assess the impact of sugary treats on their child’s teeth.
Dentists, including those at Hurst Pediatric Dentistry, can offer professional cleaning and advice on maintaining good oral health throughout the year.
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