Kingston TN
Even dentists like us believe in indulging your sweet tooth from time to time. According to a poll taken by the American Dental Association, more than three-quarters of dentists who responded hand out some form of candy… although they also throw in a toothbrush or some sort of oral hygiene advice. Candy has become synonymous with Halloween, but if you overdo it on your trick-or-treating haul, all the sugar in those sweet treats can lead to serious tooth decay. You don’t have to cut short your good times on Halloween and can do so without compromising your dental health. That’s why Dr. James Walmsley put together this guide to protect your smile this Halloween.
Shed a little light on the situation: For kiddos who are scared of the dark, consider handing out glow sticks, bracelets or necklaces. These also make it easier for parents, and drivers, to keep an eye on those trick-or-treaters in busy neighborhoods.
Water, please: Whether you are trick-or-treating from house to house, or wrangling the children that are, Halloween can be a thirsty endeavor—especially here in East Tennessee where the warmer weather could extend all the way into November at times. A small bottle of water can quench that thirst, while also helping to rinse off any accumulated sticky sugars that can become de facto landing pads for the bacteria and plaque in the candy that you sample.
Chewing gum: Chewing sugar-free gum, especially after meals, can lower your risk of tooth decay. This is because chewing gum stimulates the production of saliva, which serves as a natural means of scrubbing plaque and bacteria from your teeth. Just make sure to keep your sugar-free gum away from pets. Most sugar-free gum is sweetened with xylitol, which is highly toxic for dogs.
Trinkets: You also can offer your trick-or-treaters costume accessories like vampire teeth, eye patches or plastic spider rings. Many of these items can be bought in bulk online, or at relatively low prices at your nearest discount store. Offer some Halloween-themed stickers or pre-inked stamps as a change of pace from the usual cavalcade of candy. You also probably can find some fun Halloween pencils or erasers shaped like spooky ghosts or Jack O’Lanterns, which your trick-or-treaters can take to school the next day to stay in the Halloween spirit.
Pediatric dentistry in Kingston, Tennessee
At LakeView Dental Arts, we recognize that tooth decay is one of the most widespread chronic diseases in America. Luckily, in addition to being able to serve any oral health needs your child may have, we offer an array of preventive care services including fluoride and sealants that can help provide additional defense against cavities and other threats to your teeth. Together, we can set up your entire family for a lifetime of good oral health. If you and your family are overdue for a cleaning, contact our office today to schedule a consultation. LakeView Dental Arts currently is accepting new patients. Just call our office in Kingston at (865) 376-9687 or complete our online appointment request form.
