Halloween is a fun time of year for kids and adults alike, but too many sugary sweets could be a recipe for tooth decay. We want you and your family to enjoy your trick or treating, but we don’t want you to develop cavities. In today’s blog, your Lake Orion, MI, dentist talks about avoiding Halloween cavities!
The Causes of Tooth Decay
How do cavities form? Decay occurs when harmful oral bacteria can move beyond the protective layer of outer enamel and reach the inner dentin. The cavity then forms, and this can grow in severity until treated, risking infection without proper attention. The enamel could become weakened due to plaque buildup, a sticky layer that bacteria creates when it consumes particles of sugar and starch left behind by our meals and beverages. But steps can be taken to help prevent major buildup and also protect the enamel from erosion, so you avoid tooth decay, even following Halloween and the sugar-inundated holiday season.
Tips for Keeping Teeth Strong on Halloween
First, you and your kids should take time to properly care for your smiles each day from home. You should start your day by brushing for two minutes and then do so again before bed, and each time use a toothpaste with fluoride to help further strengthen the outer enamel. Flossing before bed is essential too, as this removes particles that a toothbrush cannot reach. You can also limit how many sweets you eat per day, and reserve them for just after dinner so the increased saliva production helps remove sugar particles. A glass of water at the same time also helps. Try to avoid options that cling to the teeth, such as candy with caramel or toffee. Parents can also give kids the chance to trade their candy in for a toy, money, or a chance to do something fun with the family, so they get to trick or treat, but don’t overdo it with sweets. If you are handing out treats, try to opt for sugar-free options or even fun Halloween party favors.
Preventive Actions from Our Team
We can also help protect smiles young and old from cavities! For all ages, we can conduct a cleaning every six months to remove plaque and tartar buildup. For kids, we can apply fluoride to the teeth to strengthen the enamel, or dental sealants to the rear teeth so sugar cannot be trapped in the areas kids have trouble racing when they brush and floss!
Lake Orion Family Dentistry Wants to Help You Avoid Cavities
Our team wants to help you enjoy bright and healthy smiles, even in the months following Halloween and the holidays. To find out more about preventing the onset of tooth decay, or to schedule an appointment, call Lake Orion Family Dentistry in Lake Orion, MI at (248)693-6213.
