Halloween is when ghosts and ghouls come out to play, but maybe for you a different kind of monster stirs inside. When the moon reaches its zenith, and you inhale the scent of chocolates and candies, it’s hard to fight the cravings. That’s right, you’re afflicted with – a sweet tooth!
Who could blame you, though? Part of the way holidays are celebrated is with tasty seasonal treats. Still, you won’t have much fun if you end up developing cavities. So if sugar is haunting your thoughts this Halloween, keep reading for some helpful prevention tips.
What Kinds of Treats Should I Avoid?
Sometimes all it takes to get the ick is knowing how the sausage gets made. Here’s a quick list of what types of Halloween signatures you should avoid and why:
- Artificial sweeteners. The processed sugar in candies and chocolate is literally nightmare fuel. It accelerates bacteria growth in your mouth – and bacteria build up is what causes dental conditions like cavities and gum disease!
- Acidic substances, like sour candy for instance, are harsh on enamel and can wear it down. Less enamel means less protection for the sensitive parts of your teeth, putting you at greater risk for cavities, gum disease, dental sensitivity, and even staining.
- Hard or chewy type candies tend to stay in the mouth for longer, whether it’s because you’re sucking on them or desperately trying to peel them off your teeth. This gives the sugar, acid, and bacteria more time to cause chaos in your mouth.
Dentists don’t warn against these confections for nothing – they can seriously impact your oral health!
Seek Out Natural Sugars and Mild Snacks
It’s not all bad news, though. Since the problem isn’t necessarily candy itself, but the unfortunate substances in it, you can satisfy your cravings in a healthier way.
The natural sugars in fruits and berries aren’t as harmful as the processed stuff, and as long as you don’t go overboard, it’s okay to dip them in chocolate from time to time. Nuts have a good crunch and are twice as filling as sour candy, while sugar-free gum makes a great chewy alternative that can actually help clean your teeth by removing bacteria.
Are You Munchy, or Just Bored?
Let’s face it – sometimes that snacking urge is less about being hungry and more about needing something to do. When you’re watching scary movies or ambling about the house, it’s easy to binge your Halloween favorites. Take a moment to evaluate your mind and your stomach. It might be better to find an activity that will keep you busy, like decorating the house, carving pumpkins, or taking your friends through a haunted corn maze.
Live Spooky Season to The Fullest!
Sugar and spice are a part of enjoying the season, but if you think about it, they’re only a small part! When your sweet tooth threatens to demolish the bowl of candy corn you have sitting out, remember that you have options for both treats and activities. Smart choices will help you enjoy more of Halloween in the long run!
About the Dentist
Dr. Robert A. Whitmore earned his dental doctorate from the Baylor School of Dentistry and has since had over 35 years of experience in the field. He has a special interest in preventative care and good dental habits, as he’s seen first-hand how drastically they can impact a patient’s health. If you struggle with a seasonal sweet tooth, Dr. Whitmore would be happy to help you curb cravings and take care of your teeth! To contact his office, call 817-468-1212.