As the scent of Autumn fills the air, the countdown begins for the big scare! Whether you’re dressing up as a vampire, werewolf, or zombie for Halloween, you don’t want your smile to look scary afterward! While it’s fun to don fake fangs or creepy makeup, keeping your real teeth healthy, strong, and beautiful is important all year round. If you want some easy tips to maintain a gorgeous grin after fright night, continue reading!
Brush and Floss the Candy Away!
Halloween treats are delicious, but they can also take a toll on your pearly whites. Sugary candies create the perfect environment for cavity-causing bacteria, so it’s important to brush and floss after indulging. Brushing twice a day for at least two minutes and flossing before bed will help remove creepy crawlies that might cause decay. A little dental care goes a long way!
Choose Your Treats Wisely
Believe it or not, some candies are better than others. Sticky and chewy treats like caramels and gummies cling to your teeth, increasing the risk of cavities. Hard sweets can also be perilous for pearly whites as one wrong bite might cause a crack or chip.
So, what should you have instead? To minimize damage, go for chocolate, which melts quickly and doesn’t stick around on your teeth. Dark chocolate, in particular, contains less sugar and may even have some chemicals that are beneficial for your smile!
Always Carry Water
While you’re out trick-or-treating and especially after enjoying your sweet spoils, rinse your mouth with water to help wash away any remaining sugar. Water also stimulates saliva production, which helps neutralize acids and prevent bacterial plaque buildup. So, keeping a bottle of water handy can help you stay hydrated and protect your teeth at the same time.
Schedule a Post-Halloween Checkup
After Halloween, it’s a great idea to schedule a dental checkup to ensure your teeth are in good shape. Your dentist can check for any signs of cavities, clean away plaque, and give your smile a clean bill of health.
Halloween might be all about spooks and sweets, but your smile shouldn’t suffer because of it! By having good dental care, making smart candy choices, and visiting your dentist, you can keep your smile boo-tiful and healthy!
About the Author
Dr. Haiwen Zhang is a passionate dental expert who loves helping all his patients take care of their fangs after fright night. He earned his dental doctorate from the Medical University of South Carolina College of Dental Medicine. Since then, he has continued to serve his patients with quality dental care for dazzling smiles. Call (505) 372-1121 to schedule an appointment at Juniper Dental or visit our website to explore other services we offer.