Halloween is a wonderful time of the year in which adults and children alike can get creative with costumes, hair and makeup. However, Halloween also means the temptation of candy is around every corner. The sugar content in these treats is not good for oral health and certain consistencies such as taffy and caramel are a nightmare for braces. In fact, candy and foods that are sticky and chewy or hard and crunchy create the biggest problems for children and adults wearing braces or retainers.
Many adults enjoy candy just as much as kids, and have a tendency to overindulge at Halloween time. These seasonal sweets, especially Tootsie Rolls, caramel apples, Skittles, Now and Laters and Laffy Taffy can damage braces, possibly leading to additional appointments and lengthening treatment time.
As such, Dr Nikaeen would like to offer the following tips this Trick-or-Treat season to help dental patients of all ages maintain healthy levels of dental hygiene:
Avoid sticky, gooey and hard candies
Opt for less-damaging chocolate variety candies – including Kit Kats, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, Three Musketeers, Nestle Crunch, Milky Way and Hershey Bars.
Consider baking or preparing something sweet from a braces-friendly recipe book.
Limit sugary treats to five pieces a day.
Always brush AND floss immediately after consuming candies and other sugary treats.
By following these simple guidelines, braces wearers may enjoy a safe and delicious Halloween season while still working toward their perfect smile. Have fun and be safe!
