Halloween is a time for costumes, candy, and tons of fun! However, if a constant stream of candy is involved, it can also bring dental emergencies if you’re not careful. With all the spooky excitement in the air, it’s easy to overlook good dental practices. Luckily, there are simple steps you can take to keep your smile safe. Continue reading to find some practical tips for avoiding dental emergencies while enjoying all the fun the season has to offer.
Skip the Sticky and Hard Stuff
Hard candies like jawbreakers and suckers, as well as sticky treats like caramels and taffy, can spell disaster for your teeth. Biting down on hard candies can lead to cracked or chipped enamel. Sticky sweets tend to cling to rough surfaces and the spaces in-between increasing the risk of cavities. If you’re handing out candy or enjoying some yourself, try to stick with softer, less risky options like dark chocolate.
Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools
Halloween costumes often come with accessories, props, or packaging that may be tempting to open with your teeth—especially when you’re in a hurry. Avoid using your teeth to tear open candy wrappers, packages, or anything else that’s sealed. Using your teeth as tools can lead to chips, cracks, or even broken teeth. Keep a pair of scissors handy instead!
Drink Plenty of Water
Sugary treats and fizzy sodas are Halloween staples, but they can also douse your teeth with sugar and acid. Drinking water throughout the night can help wash away these troublesome chemicals as well as food particles that stick to your teeth. This significantly reduces the risk of cavities and keeps you hydrated while you’re haunting the neighborhood.
Brush and Floss Before Bed
After a night of trick-or-treating and indulging in candy, don’t forget the most important step: brushing and flossing! Good oral hygiene is important to remove any lingering sugar from your teeth and gums. Make sure to brush for at least two minutes and floss to get into those hard-to-reach spots where food likes to hide.
By taking a few precautions, you can keep your teeth safe while enjoying all that fright night has to offer. Being mindful of the candy you eat, staying hydrated, and sticking to your oral care routine, you avoid dental emergencies! So, have a spooktacular Halloween, minus the dental scares!
About the Author
Dr. Mike Rudolph is a passionate dentist with over 30 years of experience helping patients find their best smiles all year round. He earned his dental doctorate from the Maryland School of Dentistry and then served in the US Navy. Today he continues to serve his community as a friendly neighborhood dentist, keeping teeth healthy and pain-free. Call (574) 269-1787 to schedule an emergency appointment at East Center Dental or visit our website to learn more about the treatments and services we offer.