Halloween is a fun and exciting holiday, but it might not be for your smile. In fact, it could be a very scary holiday for your smile if you’re not careful, especially because of all the sugary treats available.
To help you care for your smile and have a tooth-healthy Halloween in Corvallis, Oregon, your dentist, Dr. Mark P. Swensen and Dr. Haslam, encourages you to avoid eating these Halloween treats and candies:
No. 1: Gummy Bears: Gummy bears are extremely sugary, which is why they are on this list. In a serving of 20 gummy bears, there is about 30 grams of sugar, which is equivalent to about 7 ½ teaspoons of straight sugar. Sugar tends to feed the bacteria in the mouth and promote tooth decay.
No. 2: Gobstoppers: Gobstoppers are dangerous for your smile because they last for a long period of time, which means they’ll be in your mouth for a long period of time. As you suck on them, the sugar particles will work to erode your tooth enamel. Also, if you chew on this tough candy, there is a chance you can chip or break your teeth.
No. 3: Starbursts: Starbursts are sticky and sugary, which is a yummy but scary combination. Because they are so sticky, they cling to the teeth for a long time and the sugar particles attack them.
No. 4: Tootsie Rolls: Tootsie Rolls are extremely chewy and sticky. This makes the dental work in your smile at risk. Because they are so chewy, they can pull dental crowns and dental fillings out of place.
No. 5: Blow Pops: Blow Pops are extremely sugary and they also remain in your mouth for a long time. As you suck on the sucker, your teeth are exposed to the sugar. As you chew the gum, your teeth are still exposed to the sugar. This increases your chances of tooth decay.
If you avoid these treats, you’ll have a better chance at maintaining a strong and healthy smile. For more information and details, please feel free to call our office today at 541-754-4017 and talk to a member of our friendly and helpful dental team. We are here to help you have the healthiest Halloween possible, and we look forward to hearing from you!