Staying Free of Cavities This Halloween
October 30, 2019
Halloween season means you’ll likely be attending fun parties with your friends and family, or that your home will suddenly enjoy an influx of sugary sweets. With that in mind, your Kansas City, MO, dentist would like to discuss the link between candy and cavities, and what you can do to help safeguard your smile following your Halloween celebrations!
Sugar and Cavities
When we consume lots of sugary sweets, this leaves behind particles on and between the teeth, especially if you consume sticky and chewy candies. Over time, bacteria will consume these particles, breaking them down in a process that causes an increase in oral acidity and coats your teeth in a sticky layer of buildup. Plaque buildup will eventually weaken and erode the tooth enamel, exposing the sensitive inner structure to bacteria and allowing a cavity to form. Tooth sensitivity and toothaches could occur, and unless we treat the problem, the tooth could develop a dental infection.
Preventive Options
To try and prevent these complications, simply cut back on how many pieces of candy you eat each day. Reserve them for directly after meal time, as eating means increased saliva production to help cleanse the mouth. Follow them with a glass of water as well.You also need to brush your teeth for two minutes twice a day, once when you wake up and again before you go to bed. Flossing before bed helps by reaching the trapped food particles a toothbrush cannot. Be sure to see us every six months as well, so we can watch for signs of a cavity and also clean your teeth, completely removing plaque to prevent enamel erosion and tooth decay. These same tips can help you throughout the thanksgiving and winter holidays, as these dates also encourage the consumption of sugary treats!
Fun Candy Alternatives
If you’re handing out candy to kids in your neighborhood, you have the chance to make a positive impact on their smile health! Instead of handing out candy, what if you offer sugar-free options, such as temporary tattoos, stickers, crayons, and Halloween-themed party favors. These are fun treats that don’t put smiles at risk and cost as much, if not less, than bags of name brand candy. If you have any questions about maintaining healthy smiles this time of year, then contact our team today for a consultation or to schedule your next checkup and cleaning.
Do You Have a Toothache?
If your tooth begins to hurt or feels sensitive, the let us know so we can identify the cause of your discomfort. To learn more about treating cavities and keeping smiles healthy, then please schedule a consultation by calling Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry of Kansas City, MO, today at 816-427-4018.