How to Prevent Halloween Cavities
Trick-or-treat! Halloween is near, which means that many people are about to be enjoying their favorite candy and treats. This is how Halloween can affect your teeth, and what you can do to keep your smile healthy year ‘round with Young Family Dental.
Does Halloween Candy Cause Cavities?
Let’s get right to it. Does Halloween candy cause cavities? The truth is, Halloween candy doesn’t specifically result in cavities. However, it can lead to the development of cavities without good dental hygiene.
Sugar and Cavities
The culprit is sugar. Halloween candy contains plenty of it, and that’s why this spooky day can be a cavity risk. The “damage” happens when you eat Halloween candy or other sugary foods, allowing bacteria to produce acid as they process the sugars in your mouth. These are called plaque acids because they come from the harmful oral bacteria found on teeth and gums.
The Halloween candy you eat doesn’t directly harm your teeth, but it does provide a perfect opportunity for cavity-causing bacteria and acids to do their damage. If left untreated, this Halloween sugar can lead to the development of cavities. After Halloween is over, there are still plenty of chances for these sugars to cause cavity damage.
Signs of Cavities
Cavities will not always be obvious. You may see a brown or yellow spot on your teeth, and these spots are often the first sign of cavity damage. They won’t go away with brushing, which is why it’s important to visit Young Family Dental for an exam and cleaning if you notice any signs of tooth decay in between regular cleanings.
Other signs of cavities can include:
- Pain or a toothache that happens without warning
- Sensitive teeth
- Pain when you eat or drink sweet, hot, or cold things
- Holes or pits in your teeth
- Black, white, or brown tooth stains
- Pain when you bite down
Good Dental Hygiene
To maintain good oral hygiene not just on Halloween, but year ’round, requires work. Medical News Today explains a few ways that you can work to maintain your oral health:
Brush your teeth regularly
Most people are aware that brushing their teeth twice a day is one of the most important practices for removing plaque and bacteria and keeping teeth clean. However, brushing is only effective if you do it properly. Use circular motions, and brush in small, circular motions covering each tooth’s entire surface.
Use fluoride
Fluoride is a natural cavity fighter that can work wonders in protecting your dental health. Evidence suggests that a lack of fluoride can lead to tooth decay, even if you take good care of your teeth otherwise.
Floss once a day
Flossing removes plaque and food debris that gets lodged between the teeth. These tight spaces between teeth are where toothbrushes cannot reach, meaning plaque can accumulate and lead to serious dental health issues if you don’t floss regularly.
Visit your dentist often
You should see your dentist twice a year for a thorough cleaning and examination from the dentist. Even if you are not having any dental health issues you should see the dentist. These appointments make sure all areas of your mouth are clean and can catch any dental problems that may arise early on.
Use a mouthwash
Some studies have shown that certain mouthwashes can benefit oral health. For example, one review found that mouthwash contains chlorhexidine, an antibacterial ingredient, helping control plaque and gum disease.
Limit sugar
As we mentioned above, sugar can lead to cavities and tooth decay if you’re not thoroughly cleaning your mouth after you consume them. In your day-to-day life, try to limit sugar to maintain oral health.
Cavity Treatment
Fillings: Fillings are used in larger cavities or holes in the tooth that cannot be cleaned out with a simple cleaning from your dentist.
Crowns: Crowns are a way to protect and strengthen your tooth. They can be done if there is too much damage for a filling, or as an alternative treatment method.
Root Canals: Root canal therapy replaces damaged dental pulp with something more stable through the process of root-canal surgery. The dentist will clean out any infected gum tissue and then fill the root canals to complete treatment.
If left untreated, cavities can lead to tooth decay and, in severe cases, tooth loss.
Make an Appointment with Young Family Dental
Your Halloween isn’t complete without some sweet treats, but for your dental health it is important to maintain good oral hygiene. Halloween sugar can lead to cavities if not properly cleaned out of the mouth after consumption. Visit Young Family Dental today and let us help you end the new year with a nice, clean smile!