A DENTIST'S FIVE TRICKS FOR ENJOYING HALLOWEEN TREATS

As fall sets in, football is in full swing, leaves have begun to change colors and kids eagerly pick out Halloween costumes in anticipation of bags of sugary candy. While little ghosts and goblins look forward to this haunted holiday, many parents may be concerned about the oral health hazards associated with Halloween. By following the five tips outlined below, parents can help prevent cavities for little trick-or-treaters while instilling lessons for proper life-long oral health habits.

1. CHOOSE WISELY: Not all candy is equally scary. Encourage kids to eat candy that melts quickly and can be eaten easily - even better if it's made with Xylitol, a natural sweetener that prevents bacteria from producing acids that cause tooth decay. Try to avoid gooey and chewy candy, like caramels, that linger on the teeth and allow the bacteria in the mouth to produce more acid, which causes tooth decay After enjoying any sugary treat, encourage kids to brush their teeth or at least swish with water. Offer a new, brightly colored toothbrush as a final Halloween "goodie."

2. MAKE A SECRET STASH: Dont' leave candy around the house after Halloween. Store it in a hidden place out of kids' reach.

3. AVOID GRAZING: Don't allow unsupervised grazing on candy, which lengthens the time sugars are in contact with tooth enamel. Instead, consider providing a treat with or after a meal, followed by a thorough tooth brushing.

4. SET A TIME LIMIT ON THE TREATS: Time is of the essence when it comes to teeth and sugar. If not removed by brushing, swishing, or some other method, sugar from any source like sodas, regular gum, mints, cough drops, etc, in the mouth can increase the likelihood of cavities. Get rid of the post-Halloween stash as soon as possible.

5. EAT THIS, NOT THAT: Try to ensure children eat a good, hearty meal prior to trick-or-treating, so there will be less etmptation to gorge on candy.





source: http://www.columbian.com/