Editor's note: Over the last couple of weeks, we have asked dental professionals to share what they would tell patients about the abundance of candy at Halloween and how that amount of sugar can have an impact on oral health.
So far, an orthodontist has given eight tips she wished every patient knew, as well as this dentist explaining why he hands out three things that have dental implications for Halloween. Today, we look at the holiday and its associated sweet treats from the dental hygiene side. Below are the thoughts and talking points from Maria Jackson, RDH, on the Halloween recommendations she shares with patients and parents.
Maria Jackson, RDH.
"As a dental hygienist, I understand the excitement Halloween brings, especially with all the tempting sweets. However, it's important to remind patients to take care of their teeth while enjoying the festivities.
"Sticky candies like taffy can get trapped between teeth and remove restorations such as fillings and/or crowns, while hard candies pose a risk of chipping teeth. Instead of chewing hard candies, I recommend letting them melt away to reduce the chance of damage.
"Drinking water after enjoying candy can also help rinse away sugars and acids that contribute to cavities. Keep in mind, candy is acidic in nature and you want to wait at least 30 minutes before you brush so it doesn't damage the enamel.
"Good oral hygiene is especially important around Halloween. Brushing twice a day is a must, particularly after indulging in sugary treats, and don't forget to floss daily to remove stubborn food particles.
"For kids, parents should ensure they're brushing thoroughly. I also recommend scheduling a dental cleaning around this time to stay on top of oral health. With the right care, you can enjoy your Halloween candy while keeping your smile healthy and bright!"
Maria Jackson is a certified registered dental hygienist in Florida with more than 15 years of experience in the field. She holds bachelor's degrees in biology and dental hygiene and is currently pursuing a master's in applied digital technology with a focus on dental artificial intelligence. Jackson has practiced dental hygiene with Aspen Dental for the past four years, where she also serves as both a mentor and a brand ambassador.
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