Halloween brings jack o’lanterns, haunted houses, and adorable costumes, but it’s the plentiful supply of candy that makes the holiday a favorite among children. Here are some tips from Dr. Supczenski, DDS, a dentist in West Chester, to help ensure that trick-or-treat time isn’t ghoulishly bad for your child’s teeth. 

• Encourage your child to avoid hard candies that remain in the mouth for a long time or sticky candies that leave remnants behind. Both of those promote decay and plain chocolate or chocolate with nuts are better choices. 
• Allow your child to eat candy only with meals, when increased saliva production helps to clear away the sugar, and have the child chew sugarless gum for 20 minutes after the meal. 
• Be sure that your child is drinking enough water. It will help to rinse away candy residue, and the fluoride found in most water supplies provides an added layer of protection against decay. 
• Help your child maintain a good oral hygiene routine, including regular brushing and flossing, to cut down on the negative effects from Halloween’s bounty.
• See if a local hospital or medical practice is offering a candy buy-back program. These initiatives, which offer children cash in exchange for their candy, are becoming increasingly popular, particularly in light of increasing childhood obesity rates. 

Of course, protecting your child’s oral health is important year-round, not just at Halloween. Be sure your child regularly visits a pediatric Garland dentistry practice for exams and cleanings. Your child should feel comfortable in the dental office, and a pediatric dentist specializes in working with youngsters. 

In addition to monitoring your child’s intake of sweets, avoid contributing to the problem by handing out candy for trick-or-treat at your house. Consider non-sugary alternatives like pretzels, small, inexpensive toys, or pencils instead.