Dental Tips For Halloween

Halloween is a time when people enjoy being scared. From haunted houses to creepy costumes, people enjoy this holiday. However, Halloween can also be a time for dental problems. 

Here are some tips to protect your teeth during this time:

Brush and Floss Your Teeth Before Going Out Trick-or-Treating

If you want to avoid cavities this Halloween, make sure you’re brushing and flossing your smile before you head out. This will keep food particles and bacteria from becoming trapped between teeth, where they can cause damage. You should also avoid eating sticky candy that can linger on teeth and lead to decay. It’s also important to make sure children know to brush and floss their teeth after eating candy or treats.

Rinse Your Mouth

If you can’t brush your teeth right away, just rinse your mouth out with water to help dislodge any particles. You can also chew sugarless gum for a few minutes after a meal or snack to stimulate saliva production and help wash away bacteria and food particles. Gum can also stimulate the production of helpful minerals that strengthen your enamel!

Eat a Healthy Dinner Before Going Out Trick-or-Treating

Candy isn’t the only thing you should be concerned about eating on Halloween night. Eating a huge meal before you head out trick-or-treating can cause some discomfort if the food is still sitting in your stomach while you’re trying to keep up with your candy haul! Try to eat a light, healthy snack before going to a party or out trick or treating. Some good choices are veggies and dip with whole wheat crackers, fruit and hummus spread on whole-grain toast, or cheese and fruit slices on whole-grain crackers. That way, you can fill up on healthy options and avoid feeling weighed down by a full stomach while you enjoy your night out!

Limit Candy Consumption

The actual sugar content of a piece of candy is not very high – usually between 4 to 6 grams per piece. However, if you’re consuming multiple pieces of candy after a meal, that number can add up quickly! Not only is the sugar content a concern for dental health, but all that snacking can take away from time that could be spent brushing your teeth or flossing. Plaque can still form on the teeth after eating candy, so it’s important to clean the teeth thoroughly after eating sweets. Try to avoid snacking in between big meals to reduce the risk of tooth decay due to plaque build-up!

Ygnacio Dental is located at 1766 Lacassie Ave, Suite 101, Walnut Creek, CA 94596. Call (925) 280-2848 to schedule an appointment or to learn more tips for improving your oral health.