Sorting Through Your Trick-or-Treat Bag

When we think about Halloween, we think about overflowing bags of free candy. And while we hate to admit it, these sweet treats are not very tooth-friendly and can have devastating effects. When candy gets stuck in the grooves of your teeth it can cause a damaging acid to form in your mouth. This acid from the candy affects the teeth 20 minutes before it’s neutralized. Here’s a breakdown Halloween’s favorite candy from best to worst for our smiles:

Best Candy for Teeth

• Chocolate dissolves quickly, which decreases the amount of time the sugar stays in contact with teeth. Choose your favorite chocolate but avoid the fillings like nuts or caramel, as they can damage to teeth.
• Sugar-free lollipops and hard candies stimulate saliva production, which flushes away bad bacteria from your teeth, gums and tongue.
• Sugar-free gum can help remove food particles and stimulate saliva production.

Worst Candy for Teeth

• When it comes to sticky candy, stickier the candy, the worse it is for teeth.
• Hard candy stays in your mouth longer, drenching your mouth in sugar.
• Candy corn is full of sugar that produces acid that eats away tooth enamel.
• Sour candy is high in acid levels, which can break down tooth enamel.
• Jawbreakers are so hard they can actually chip a tooth.

Make sure to brush and floss your teeth after indulging in your Halloween treats. If you can’t brush right away, drink plenty of water to help loosen some of the residue left behind. Brushing and flossing your teeth is a must, especially during Halloween.

Visit Dr. Kirtley today and schedule an appointment to maintain a healthy smile.  Call 317-841-1111 or www.smilesbygeorge.com.

Dr. George Kirtley proudly serves Indianapolis and all surrounding areas.