Halloween means candy! Lots of it!! Who doesn't love that??
Without proper care, your teeth, potentially.
As much fun as the spookiest night of the year (and the candy-filled weeks that follow it) can be, the persistent sugar rush can leave teeth throughout your family vulnerable to decay. This is why we highlight November as the ideal time to schedule a professional dental cleaning. Post-Halloween cleanings help ensure that any plaque buildup or sugar residue doesn’t become a more serious issue as the holiday season ramps up!
Sugar’s Impact on Oral Health
Sugar feeds bacteria in the mouth. As it does this, tooth enamel-attacking acids are released. The more sugar you consume, the more acids are produced. These acids, when allowed to linger on the surfaces of teeth, begin to erode protective enamel, promote plaque buildup, and increase the risks of cavities and decay.
A professional cleaning shortly after Halloween helps remove any lingering plaque and tartar, especially in hard-to-reach areas, helping keep teeth strong and healthy.
Prevent Plaque from Hardening
Halloween candies, especially sticky or chewy ones, can easily coat teeth with sugar and accelerate plaque buildup. Left untreated, this plaque hardens into tartar, which can’t be removed with brushing alone. A professional teeth cleaning ensures that any accumulated plaque is removed and the risk of gum disease and other potentially damaging issues is mitigated.
Extra Ways to Keep Sugar at Bay
In addition to scheduling a dental cleaning, consider these tips for at-home dental care around Halloween:
- Brush thoroughly after candy — Brushing and flossing twice a day helps remove sugar from dental surfaces and the gumline.
- Rinse away sugar residue — Drinking water washes away sugary residue and promotes the production of acid-neutralizing saliva.
- Limit candy intake — Easier said than done, sure, but try to avoid continuous snacking on sweets to give your teeth a break from constant sugar exposure.
- Choose teeth-friendly treats — When enjoying sweet treats, whenever possible, try to choose solid, dark chocolates over sticky candies, as it’s easier to clean off teeth.
Scheduling a dental cleaning post-Halloween can keep teeth strong and healthy by minimizing the risks associated with high sugar intake. Enjoy Halloween with peace of mind, knowing that a good cleaning afterward can protect your smile year-round!
Book Your Post-Halloween Dentist Appointment in Greeley, CO Today!
If you’re looking for a dentist in Greeley to help you and your family enjoy the spoils of Halloween but kick off the holiday season in strong oral health, contact Dr. Shawn Buffington and the excellent Norco Family Dental team today to schedule an appointment!