Our team wants to help kids enjoy their Halloween fun, but not leave their smiles vulnerable to tooth decay! From limiting sweets to better oral hygiene, steps can be taken to protect kids from cavities. In today’s blog, your Syosset, NY, dentist talks about helping kids stay free of cavities during the spooky season!
How Candy Causes Tooth Decay
When kids suddenly begin eating a lot of sugary sweets, especially options that are chewy and cling to the teeth, this leaves behind particles of sugar that harmful oral bacteria can consume. As bacteria break down these sugar particles, this elevates oral acidity and coats the teeth in plaque, a sticky layer that weakens enamel to cause painful cavities and infections. Which is why we suggest limiting how many sweets your child eats per day. Better yet, reserve these pieces for just after dinner, where the increased saliva production can help remove the stray particles. Following them with a glass of water is even more helpful!
Some parents even offer children a chance to trade excess candy for a fun toy or small amount of money. If you are the one handling the treat giving this year, consider sugar-free options like temporary tattoos, stickers, or Halloween party favors like spider rings or plastic skeletons or bats.
Children’s Dentistry
With children’s dentistry, we can also help protect kids from cavities. When you bring them in for an exam, we will watch for signs of tooth decay and if we find them, we can offer care with a lifelike filling. We also clean the teeth, a process that lowers the risk of cavities and gingivitis. In the same sitting, we can coat the teeth in a fluoride varnish to help strengthen the outer enamel. If kids have trouble reaching the back teeth when they brush and floss, we can coat them in sealants to keep sugar from being trapped there. This fights tooth decay and the sealants can even stay in place for up to ten years!
Better Oral Hygiene Habits
At home, you can help them by making sure they brush and floss daily to remove sugar and prevent major plaque and tartar buildup. This lowers the risk of cavities and instills good oral health habits that will serve them in adulthood. If you have any questions about our approach to children’s dentistry, or about how we treat Halloween cavities, then contact our team today to learn more.
Do You Have Questions About Children’s Dentistry
Our team wants to make sure your little ones enjoy better oral health and stronger smiles throughout Halloween and the holiday season. To learn more about children’s dentistry and cavity prevention, then contact our Syosset, NY dental office today at 516-433-2211.
