The Best and Worst Halloween Candy For Your Teeth
We all deserve to indulge in some sweets for Halloween, but the bacteria in your mouth is looking forward to all that candy way more than you. Your mouth bacteria feeds off of leftover food pieces, and candy is a sure favorite. As they feed, acid is produced, which leads to cavities, plaque buildup, and potentially periodontitis.
If you’re looking to better protect your oral health this Halloween, here’s what candy to stay away from and what you can snack on:
Candies to Avoid
Caramels, Taffy, and Other Chewy Candies
Candy-filled caramel or taffy’s that are very chewy are by far the worst candies for your teeth. Inside your mouth, they stick to everything, including the grooves of your teeth and under your gums. When food stays stuck in your mouth, the more time bacteria have to feed on it and produce cavity-causing acid.
Hard Candies
Lollipops, jawbreakers, and other candies you have to suck on and then bite are also bad for your oral health. They take time to dissolve, meaning more acid builds up in your mouth, and plaque develops.
Candies to Enjoy
Chocolate
Who doesn’t love some chocolate? Luckily, it isn’t so bad for your teeth. Chocolate, without sticky fillings, typically won’t stick to your teeth and will be easy to chew and swallow, minimizing bacteria growth.
Sugar-Free Gum
If you’re looking for something to chew, opt for some gum of the sugar-free variety. The natural sugar substitutes used in sugar-free gum don’t leave a sticky residue that plaque builds from, making it the ideal sweet choice.
Contact us to schedule your dental cleaning appointment!
If you are worried about your teeth, need a cleaning, or are experiencing any dental problems, give Fairfield Dental Arts a call at (203) 254-3780. We are your family’s dentist and can provide expert oral care for people of all ages!