It’s never to early to start caring for your little one’s teeth. Especially during this Halloween season when treats and sweets rule. Toddlers, older children and even new eaters given baby-safe Halloween treats are at risk of developing cavities if you don’t make sure to provide proper dental care.
With this in mind the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) has some helpful tips for parents that allow your child to enjoy Halloween while keeping their teeth healthy…
- Mix in healthy snacks along with Halloween candy: A balanced diet is one that includes cheese, fruits, vegetables, grains, lean meat, milk and yogurt. Healthy snacks not only build strong kids, but actually help keep teeth healthy.
- Be the tooth-healthy house on the block: Pass out alternative treats to ghouls and goblins such as cracker snack-packs, trail mix packs, rice crispy treats, etc.
- Avoid chewy treats that tend to stick to teeth and cause more damage.
- Monitor candy consumption: Only allow Halloween treats in moderation.
- Take the fear out of flossing: Teach children flossing techniques for improved oral health at Halloween.
- Make tooth brushing fun: Seasonal tooth brushes featuring Halloween themes get children excited about taking care of their tiny teeth. Remember, even newborn babies aren’t too young for tooth and gum care.
- Don’t be afraid of the dentist: With all of the sweet treats consumed around Halloween, now is a great time for parents to schedule a pediatric dental appointment for their children. Babies as young as one year need a dentist. In fact the newest NIH recommendations note that you should schedule a dentist appointment for your baby by his first birthday.
Also remember, baby bottles full of apple juice or even milk can cause tooth damage too.
