Are you ready for your Halloween get-together or to accompany children on their trick or treating adventures? We want you to enjoy your Halloween fun, but we also want you to avoid the onset of dental cavities. In today’s blog, your Richfield, MN, dentist talks about how to prevent cavities during the spooky season.
Sugar and Cavities
When we consume a lot of snacks and treats high in sugar, this leaves behind particles that become stuck on or between your teeth. Oral bacteria will then break down and consume these particles, a process that impacts the smile in a number of ways. First, the levels of oral acidity rise and then the teeth become coated in a harmful layer of plaque buildup. These factors weaken and erode the outer enamel to make cavities possible. The teeth could then become sensitive or even ache. Which is why during Halloween and the upcoming holiday season, we all need to take action to protect the teeth.
Taking Steps to Protect Smiles
You should first limit how many pieces of candy you and your kids will eat each day. Reserve them for just after dinner, as increased saliva production can help remove sugar particles. A glass of water also helps rinse away these particles. Your children can also trade their excess candy to you for money for a toy, so they still have fun and eat some of their treats, but without putting their smiles at risk. If you’re going to be handing out candy at your house this year, consider opting for a non-candy option. Offer sealed packages of nuts or tail mix, or possibly granola bars or crackers. You can also give out temporary tattoos, stickers, or party favors like plastic skeletons and spider rings.
Better Oral Hygiene Habits
To help prevent cavities, you and your kids should start each day by brushing teeth for two minutes with a fluoride toothpaste, and by flossing every evening to remove what a toothbrush cannot reach. Find time to see our team for a checkup and cleaning visit. We can monitor the same for signs of decay and offer treatment with a lifelike filling. You can also receive fluoride gel or dental sealants too. A visit now is a chance to use your remaining 2022 dental insurance benefits and health savings funds before they expire at the end of the year. If you have any questions, give us a call!
Do You Have Questions About Avoiding Cavities?
Our team is ready to help you avoid the onset of tooth decay this Halloween. If you have any questions about preventing or treating tooth decay, or if you would like to schedule an appointment, contact your Richfield, MN, dentist, Dr. Keller, by calling (612) 861-7188.
