Halloween will soon be here, so people are prepping for parties and trick-or-treating. Some of you are likely picking costumes, while others are deciding the best ways to get candy. However you plan to spend the 31st, though, you don’t need an overly-scary smile to enjoy it. That said, you should consider ways to keep your teeth healthy amidst the festivities. Fortunately, your dentist in Portage happens to have some. Read on to learn four tips for keeping a great smile during and after Halloween!
Be Careful of Which Candies You Eat
Did you know some candies are worse for teeth than others? As it turns out, hard and sticky ones stick to enamel longer. As a result, they’re more likely to cause tooth decay, cavities, and worse. Plus, tough candies like jaw-breakers and lollipops can crack a tooth if you aren’t careful.
If possible, try to find substitutes for the items above. Chocolate would be a good alternative since you can chew and swallow it quickly. Sugar-free gum would be even better, especially since it increases saliva flow to wash away candy debris.
Fill up On Mouth-Healthy Foods
As tempting as it might be, try not to overindulge in Halloween sweets. Instead, “fill up” on mouth-healthy foods like leafy greens, lean proteins, low-sugar dairy products, etc. Not only would these items boost your overall health, but they’d also reduce your appetite and keep you from going overboard on candy.
While at it, avoid sugar-heavy drinks, too — soda, sports drinks, and so on. When teeth react to such beverages, the risk of tooth decay is increased.
Brush & Floss Before Bed
It’s easy to get so caught up in Halloween fun that you forget to clean your teeth before bed. However, make sure not to let that happen! In other words, remind yourself to brush your teeth twice daily and floss once daily. That way, you won’t let leftover sweets stick to your teeth overnight.
Drink Plenty of Water
Even if you spend the 31st chowing down on candy, remember to drink plenty of water too. Besides being good for your body, the liquid does wonders for your teeth and mouth too! Drinking water helps rinse away the sugar that would otherwise cling to teeth. It also lowers your mouth’s acidity levels, thus ensuring your enamel doesn’t erode much.
Based on the tips above, you have many options for protecting your smile during All Hallows Eve. Talk to your local dentist in Portage if you want to learn more.
About the Practice
Advanced Dental Concepts is based in Crown Point, IN. As led by Drs. Hayes and Hansen, our practice takes a personal approach that ensures great oral care. To that end, we perform customized preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry, including emergency procedures. Our team is also a certified provider of both dental sedation services and Invisalign clear aligners. For more information or to book an appointment, you can reach us on our website or by phone at (219)-763-6878.