{"id":103,"date":"2019-10-29T22:23:25","date_gmt":"2019-10-29T22:23:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.cherrichdds.com\/blog\/?p=103"},"modified":"2019-10-29T22:23:25","modified_gmt":"2019-10-29T22:23:25","slug":"love-halloween-how-protect-childs-teeth-dentist","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.cherrichdds.com\/blog\/2019\/10\/29\/love-halloween-how-protect-childs-teeth-dentist\/","title":{"rendered":"Love Halloween? Here\u2019s How to Protect Your Child\u2019s Teeth"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"AHalloween is a great way to kickstart the holiday season that\u2019s about to begin. Scary costumes, tasty candy; what\u2019s there not to love for a kid? While free candy and dressing up is always fun for kids, being told that they have a cavity is the last thing you or your child wants to hear. Instead of settling for tooth decay, here\u2019s what you should do this October to protect your child\u2019s teeth, as recommended by a dentist<\/a>.<\/p>\n

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Keep Moderation in Mind<\/h2>\n

Since far more candy is about to enter your household, you need to make sure that they aren\u2019t constantly exposed to sugar already. This means keeping sugary drinks like soda out of the house for the foreseeable future. It also means not keeping bowls of candy or sweets easily available for your child to eat on top of the candy they already got trick-or-treating. Consistent exposure to candy only creates an environment for bacteria to grow, develop, and release cavity-causing plaque acids.<\/p>\n

Screen Their Candy for the Worst Offenders<\/h2>\n

While all candy is bad for teeth, there are certain kinds of candy that your child should avoid at all costs if you want to reduce their risk for cavities and tooth decay. This includes sour gummies, which not only stay on teeth for long periods of time, but also contain acidic compounds that break down enamel. Traditional gummies should also be avoided as they can be very difficult to remove via oral care. If you find any hard candies, whether they be lollipops or stand-alone candies, keep these out of their bag as well. They are meant to stay in the mouth for long periods of time and can even crack teeth if bitten into.<\/p>\n

Consider Donating or Trading Their Candy<\/h2>\n

Many dental practices will accept donations for candy you\u2019ve deemed to be too harmful for your child. Of course, it\u2019s also worth considering a trade for their candy, which could include foods that are much better for their oral health. This includes cheese sticks, which work to scrub teeth, provide essential calcium for enamel, and even neutralize bacteria. You can also give them small toys, stickers, temporary tattoos, or other items that you know they will enjoy.<\/p>\n

Help Them Maintain a Positive Oral Care Routine<\/h2>\n

While it\u2019s important to do year-round, it\u2019s especially important during the holiday season to keep these tips in mind:<\/p>\n