Tips for Healthy Smiles at Halloween

Halloween is a time when children across the nation are showered with their favorite candy treats. Because sugar intake can increase dramatically in one night, it's important for parents to incorporate healthy dental habits during this sugar-filled holiday season. Here are some tips for maintaining a healthy smile at Halloween:

Rinse With Water
Drinking water immediately after eating sweets helps clear sugar residue from the teeth and prompts saliva production, which helps eliminate even more sugar.

Brush and Floss Before Bed
Most harmful mouth bacteria accumulates and attacks after falling asleep, so it's important for children to brush and floss before bed.

Give Out Sugar-Free Sweets
Consider offering sugar-free treats to trick-or-treaters, and to your own children as well.

Visit the Dentist
Visiting the dentist before or after Halloween allows for a checkup that can catch and prevent further decay, including cleanings, fluoride treatment, or fillings if needed.

A family that visits the dentist regularly has the best chance of avoiding enamel issues. The recommended amount of dental visits is twice a year for regular cleanings, plus any time a symptom or problem occurs.

Call Bolivar Family Dental at (417) 777-8654 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Paul Gonzales.