“With a few smart choices, families can keep the fun and skip the cavities.”
– Dr. Laura Goodell, a pediatric dentist in West Bend and WDA member
The Wisconsin Dental Association (WDA) wants children to enjoy the Halloween fun without compromising their oral health. While sweets are a big part of the season, too much sugar and chewy treats can damage orthodontic appliances, cause tooth pain and increase the risk of cavities.
To help families protect those growing smiles without spoiling the fun, WDA dentists share the following tips for a tooth-friendly Halloween:
- Enjoy your treats with a meal: The extra saliva in your mouth will help rinse away leftover bits of candy and cavity-causing acids.
- Don’t snack on sugar: If you need an energy boost, reach for low-sugar options like nuts or veggies.
- Skip the sticky or sour candies: Sticky sweets cling to teeth, increasing your risk of developing cavities, and sour candies contain acids that can weaken enamel.
- Don’t keep a big stash of candy on hand: Have your family pick their favorites and donate the rest.
- Chew sugar-free gum with the American Dental Association Seal: Chewing sugarless gum for 20 minutes after eating helps prevent tooth decay by producing extra saliva. Look for brands that have earned the ADA Seal of Acceptance.
- Choose fun treats that aren’t candy: Consider giving out longer-lasting items like coloring books or stickers.
- A little chocolate is fine: Chocolate doesn’t stick to your teeth as much as other candy. Dark chocolate is the best option because it has less cavity-causing sugar.
“Halloween is a special time for kids, and we want them to enjoy it — just without the toothaches later,” said Dr. Laura Goodell, a pediatric dentist in West Bend and WDA member. “With a few smart choices, families can keep the fun and skip the cavities.”
