At Dental Kidz Club, our team, led by Jihee Chun, DDS, is dedicated to providing exceptional and affordable dental care for children, ensuring a welcoming and friendly environment at each of our Southern California locations. We aim to treat each patient like family, making dental visits comfortable and stress-free for children and parents.
Sort the Candy Wisely
Not all Halloween candies are created equal for your child’s teeth. Sticky, chewy sweets like caramels and gummies cling to teeth and are harder to wash away, increasing the risk of cavities. Sour candies are also harmful because their high acidity can erode enamel. After Halloween, go through your child’s candy and set aside these trickier treats. Focus on safer options, like chocolates, which melt quickly and are easier to clean off teeth.
Set Limits on Candy Consumption
Allowing your child to indulge in their Halloween stash is part of the fun, but moderation is key. Encourage them to eat candy after meals rather than as a standalone snack. Since saliva production increases during meals, it helps wash away any food particles and minimizes the impact of sugary treats on teeth.
Encourage Extra Brushing
After Halloween, it’s essential to be extra vigilant about brushing. Brushing their teeth at least twice daily is standard, but encourage them to brush after eating candy for best results. Use toothpaste with fluoride to strengthen enamel and fight cavities. For younger children, supervise their brushing to ensure they reach all areas of their mouth.
Offer Water or Sugar-Free Gum
Water is an easy and effective way to rinse away sugar and food particles after eating candy. If your child is old enough, sugar-free gum is also a great option, as it stimulates saliva flow, which helps protect against cavities.
Schedule a Post-Halloween Dental Checkup in Riverside, CA
After a sugar-heavy holiday like Halloween, scheduling a dental checkup is a good idea. Your pediatric dentist can spot any early signs of tooth decay and keep your child’s smile healthy. By following these tips, your child can enjoy Halloween while keeping their smile bright and cavity-free! Call us today to schedule an appointment at one of our offices in Brea, Corona, Covina, Ontario, Riverside, Chino, or Perris, CA.
