Keeping Kids' Teeth Healthy During Halloween
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Eating lots of sweets at Halloween is tempting, but many parents feel the familiar pull of guilt when they see the horde of candy their children stash away each Halloween. But how much is too much? And does a few extra candy bars really have a lasting impact on children's teeth?
In an email interview for this article, pediatric dentist, Dr. John Dodes, said he believes moderation is the key and that indulging a little on a holiday is fine. But, he urged parents to not let children overdo it.
"Enjoying Halloween candy isn’t going to be painfully detrimental to your child’s oral health," said Dr. Dodes, "but generally speaking, it is important that as parents we supervise our children and monitor their sugar in-take. You don’t have to ruin Halloween with a 'no candy' rule. Everything in moderation is fine."
When the idea of moderation isn't followed, tooth decay can occur. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says tooth decay affects children in the United States more than any other chronic infectious disease. This decay can be caused by poor eating habits and equally poor dental care. The CDC says that tooth decay can cause pain and infection and can hamper everyday activities like eating, talking, playing and learning.
Dr. Dodes, also the author of ”Healthy Teeth: A User’s Manual” said there are some great ways to keep children's teeth (and whole mouth) healthy before, during, and after holidays like Halloween. He urged parents to get kids motivated to take care of their own teeth by first and foremost setting a good example.
In the interview, he said that when kids see their parents brushing, flossing, and rinsing, they are more likely to want to do it themselves. He also was very impressed with kid-centric products like Listerine's Smart Rinse mouthwash.
He said, "Smart Rinse is great in the eyes of parents and dentists as it strengthens teeth 99 percent better than brushing alone and has fluoride which provides cavity protection.
We value and respect the experiences of all of our HERWriters, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.
Add a Comment2 Comments
I’m a single mom and I have 2 kids who both needed dental braces. I make just enough to not qualify Medicaid services so I can’t get free Treatment on healthy teeth. I had to pay over $4800 so that my child can have braces and a beautiful smile. . .She was very scared and timid at school. I couldn’t find anyone in Los Angeles who would do the braces at a normal price so I had to launch find it with free services likehttp://www.healthsouk.com (HealthSouk- the dental discount plan or discounted dentistry) and www.1800dentist.com (800 dentist) The first one was free and the second apparently charges the dentist but not me.healthsouk
November 14, 2011 - 11:32pm- Jenny Thomas
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I'm glad you found some help. It is NOT easy to pay for medical care.
November 16, 2011 - 7:15pm