Dentists Advise Caution Around Halloween

Every Halloween, we hear safety tips repeated until there's little way for anyone in the free world to be unaware of them. What we perhaps don't hear enough of, however, is the effect eating a bunch of candy can have on the teeth of our young ones. While eating a bunch of candy one night a year is not going to cause tooth decay, dentists are quick to warn against a culture based around the eating of sweets. Halloween candy often lasts for several days, if not weeks, and it can lead to a situation where candy becomes a common treat in the home. Since many parents treasure an opportunity to use a fun event as a learning tool, here are some of the tips dental professionals advise using on Halloween.

Avoid Overconsumption

There is a temptation to let kids go hog wild on Halloween. They have a basket full of goodies, after all, so why not let them have their fun? Dentists warn that this could be sending the wrong message. When kids of an impressionable age learn that it's okay to sit and gorge on chocolate and sour candy until their bellies hurt, it makes them wonder why it isn't okay at other times. But sweets such as these are the primary contributor towards cavities and tooth decay. When they become a part of our daily lives, even a strict brushing regimen many not be enough to stave off the harmful effects.

Balance It Out

Consider taking the Halloween candy from your children and parceling it out as you see fit. It can perhaps be used as a reward for eating something healthy, like an apple or a plate of vegetables. This not only ensures that there won't be any gorging, but can also teach children that healthy foods should always come first. Dentists often warn, however, not to use the candy as a reward for other behaviors (grades, shutting off the television, etc.). This kind of reinforcement can follow children into adulthood and they begin to have a warped view of food in general. These types of dysfunctions can lead to tooth decay and obesity.

Teach

Get into the habit of having your children brush their teeth after they consume their candy. Sugar does the most harm when it is left on the teeth to fester and break down. This is where it attacks the enamel and can really cause problems. It isn't difficult to start a habit of good oral health. Once begun, in fact, it can be difficult to break, and that is a good thing.