How to Survive Your Sweet Tooth.

Halloween candy.  You know it and I know it.  If you’re not sneaking it from your kids, you’re probably eating the leftovers you gave out at your door, or that somebody brought to the office coffee room. 

Thanks to years of education from parents, teachers, dental hygienists, and dentists like myself, most of you are already are aware that eating candy (and drinking sugary drinks) can contribute to tooth decay. But if your house is now full of delicious Halloween candy, and you enjoy the taste of delicious treats (mmmmmm, chocolate), by following a few common sense practices you can maintain healthy teeth.

Here are a few tips that can help prevent cavities for those of you, like myself, who have a sweet tooth:

Brush Often

While this might seem obvious, a busy schedule or forgetfulness often prevents you from brushing as often as you should. To keep your teeth clean, you should carry a portable or disposable toothbrush with you at all times. Portable toothbrushes are perfect for busy adults, such as sales representatives and insurance agents, who are on the road during the day. They allow you to quickly visit the restroom after eating a sugary dessert or snack and remove any food or sugar on the teeth.

Use a Mouthrinse

It’s not  a substitute for brushing, but use a mouthrinse to remove as much sugar and sticky residue as possible. While mouthrinses that contain fluoride are ideal, even swishing plain water around your mouth can help when no other option is available.

Chew Sugar-Free Gum After

If you chew a sugar-free gum after eating sweets it will help clean your teeth. The gum will increase the production of saliva, aiding in removing any sugar coating the teeth.

Opt for Less Sugary Alternatives

Obviously, fruits are a healthy way to satisfy a craving for sweets, but for those who don't want to substitute a banana for a donut, there are still some choices you can make to lessen the risk of cavities. For example, a piece of a chocolate bar will not coat the mouth in sticky sugar for quite as long as a candies containing caramel or gooey taffy.  And, please, don't suck for a long time on a lollipop.

The key to prevent cavities after eating sugary foods is simply to prevent the mouth from remaining coated in the acid-forming sugars and other carbohydrates found in sweets after eating—just keep the toothbrush moving.

Keep smiling,

 

Dr. Elzbieta W. Basil, DMD is a private practice dentist with offices in West Hartford Center and Downtown New Britain, Connecticut.  She is a Clinical Instructor at the UConn School of Dental Medicine, and has won several awards naming her regional “Best Dentist” and “Top Dentist.” She is an active member of the Connecticut State Dental Association and the American Dental Association. Tel: 860-561-2121