Halloween is almost here. This is the prime season for watching horror movies in the dark. In these thrilling films, a terrible monster will often appear with superhuman strength to terrorize unsuspecting victims. Halloween brings with it a real-life threat that can strike before you realize what’s happening — tooth decay. The bacteria in your mouth feed off of sugar, so chomping down on an excess of candy after trick-or-treating may spell disaster for your teeth. Here’s how you can avoid the frightening prospect of cavities and tooth decay this Halloween.
Closely Regulate You and Your Family Members’ Consumption of Candy
While the bounty of candy that your child brings home from trick-or-treating may send them into a sugar-induced excitement, all of those sweets can actually fuel the bacteria inside your teeth. These bacteria are living organisms that prosper by converting carbohydrates into acid, which damages your enamel. Make sure that your child isn’t consuming an excess of candy in any given sitting. (You should also make sure you aren’t helping yourself to too much of your children’s stash.)
Halloween Is a Good Time to Check In with the Family’s Brushing Practices
Now is the perfect time of year to take stock of your oral healthcare routine at home. Did you finally start regularly flossing? This is the time to make it happen. Are you brushing your teeth at least twice daily? If so, are you paying attention while you brush your teeth? Passive brushing can leave some teeth less clean. Where bacteria are allowed to prosper over time, you’re more likely to see cavities develop. Take a moment around Halloween to check in with each member of the family and make sure you’re doing all you can to protect your teeth.
Make Your Next Dentist Appointment with Stubbs Family Dentistry
This is also a good time to make your end-of-the-year dental appointments. If you haven’t had a checkup or cleaning in some time, be sure to use your dental insurance benefits before they expire. Stubbs Family Dentistry provides patients with thorough cleanings and examinations to ensure that your teeth stay in tip-top shape. To make an appointment for you or a family member, contact Stubbs Family Dentistry in West Allis, WI at 414-541-8250.
