There are steps you as a parent can take to lessen the damage while not starting World War 3 with your kids.
Ellis Dental and Halloween Candy
One of your dentist worse nightmares is almost upon us…Halloween! And not because of patients coming in dressed as ghoulish witches or scary little devils but because this is prime time for sticky lollipops, gooey chocolate bars and chewy sugary candies. But there are steps you as a parent can take to lessen the damage while not starting World War 3 with your kids.
- Believe it or not but chocolate is better for your child’s teeth than even raisins. Raisins, like gum, gummy worms and caramels take longer to chew and can easily get stuck between teeth.
- Don’t make Halloween treats a battle. Set a certain number of candy pieces allowed each day for a certain number of days, then toss or donate the rest. That way your child won’t feel deprived.
- Now is also a good time to talk to your children about why large amounts of candy are harmful to their teeth as well as their general overall health.
- I know it’s tough to get your child to brush their teeth the recommended two times a day, much less have them brush every time they enjoy a piece of Halloween candy. But at least try to get them to rinse their mouths out with warm water as this helps reduce the amount of sugar left on the teeth.
- As difficult as it maybe, don’t be the house on the block who gives out toothbrushes or fruit or pencils instead of candy. Halloween is all about spooky fun along with great candy choices…but all in moderation.
Ready to start your child on the road to good dental health? Ellis Dental welcomes children of all ages.
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