Who’s the Switch Witch? She’s a good witch who visits your home on Halloween night to swap all your children’s candy treats with a toy, book, or similar gift. Why consider this newer tradition? To help protect your children’s teeth from the tooth sensitivity and decay that can be caused by too much sugar.
First conceived by a mother of two looking for ways to protect her children’s teeth, the Switch Witch has since become a beloved tradition across the country that has been endorsed by countless parents and dentists alike.
What are the Worst Halloween Offenders?
Halloween is a time filled with sugary treats. Complete abstention isn’t necessary, but there are a few candies and treats that are better to avoid.
Taffy, caramel, and similarly sticky candies are the worst for teeth – both young and old – as they can stick in hard-to-clean areas, allowing for greater bacteria build-up and a larger risk for decay. Hard candies, such as suckers and jawbreakers are best avoided as well. These can chip or break teeth, particularly those with larger restorations. Sour candies are also a bad idea. The acidic content of these candies can quickly impact tooth enamel.
It’s not all bad news, however. Standard chocolate, along with many cookies, pies, cakes, and similar baked goods are safe in small doses. Just be sure your child cleans their teeth appropriately after eating these sugary treats.
Cleaning Your Teeth at Halloween
It is a good idea to wait for at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth after eating a treat. Make sure to drink some water during this time to help flush away debris and prepare your teeth for cleaning.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to gently brush your teeth after every sugary snack. Aim for at least two minutes of brushing each time and be sure to floss at least once a day as well. These steps can help to prevent enamel erosion, tooth decay, and other issues related to too much sugar.
Contact Us for Help
If you or your child experience tooth damage or a persistent ache this Halloween, call our office at 941-351-4468 to set up an appointment. We welcome patients from Sarasota and all surrounding areas of Florida.