Halloween Candy: The Best and Worst Treats for Your Teeth

Halloween is one of the most fun nights of the year in Anthem, and a bag full of candy is part of the tradition. The good news is you don’t have to skip the treats to protect your family’s smiles. A little know-how about which candies are easiest on teeth, and when to eat them, goes a long way.

The Trickiest Treats for Teeth

• Sticky and chewy candy like taffy, caramels and gummies cling to teeth and between them, feeding cavity-causing bacteria for hours.
• Hard candy and lollipops dissolve slowly, bathing teeth in sugar, and biting down on them can chip a tooth.
• Sour candy is acidic, which can soften enamel, especially when combined with sugar.

Better Choices

• Plain chocolate melts quickly and rinses away more easily than sticky candy. Dark chocolate has less sugar.
• Sugar-free gum with xylitol can actually help by increasing saliva, which washes away food and neutralizes acid.
• Non-candy treats like stickers, glow sticks or small toys are a fun option for trick-or-treaters.

Smart Habits for Halloween Week

• Enjoy candy with or right after a meal instead of snacking all day. Saliva flow is higher at mealtimes, which helps protect teeth.
• Drink water after treats to rinse away sugar.
• Brush twice a day and floss once a day, especially before bed.
• Set a “candy window” for kids so treats are enjoyed in one sitting rather than grazed on for hours.
• Consider trading in extra candy once the fun is over.

Time for a Checkup?

Halloween is a great reminder to keep up with regular cleanings and exams. If it has been more than six months since your family’s last visit, now is a good time to book an appointment. You can also learn more about our family dentistry services.