Halloween is just around the corner, and that means lots of candy for kids! Although chocolates and sweets are oh-so yummy, how do they affect our teeth? Bacteria in our mouth digest the sugars in candy, and produce a mild acid. This acid attacks the hard outer surface of the tooth, called the enamel. If these bacteria aren’t removed every day by brushing and flossing, the enamel gets soft and a cavity starts to form. Our recommendations? Have your child eat their candy during mealtime, when there is extra saliva that helps to wash away sugars, and keeps an even pH in their mouth. Reinforce brushing and flossing after each meal. Alternatively, instead of eating their candy, have them bring it to Reflections Dental Health Centre! From November 1-8, we will buy back Halloween candy for $1 per 1Lb.
Dr. Sarah Keating Sangalang, www.reflectionsdentalhealth.ca