‘Tis the season for family gatherings, special events and many meals around the holiday dinner table. It’s also the time of year when overindulging in sweet treats and desserts can become part of the daily diet, and though that occasional splurge won’t do much harm to your diet regiment, eating and drinking sugar-laden treats all season long can take its toll on your teeth. 

The Washington Dental Service, a nonprofit organization that helps educate families about the importance of dental care, encourages everyone to pay attention to their teeth this Halloween and holiday season and take extra steps to prevent cavities and tooth decay.   According to Dr. Ron Inge, Vice President and Dental Director of the Washington Dental Service, "Dental disease is a year-round concern for parents and children, but even more so during Halloween. By following a few simple practices, parents can help their children reduce the negative impacts of too much sugar." (Source:  Washington Dental Service)

You and your family can enjoy a safe and happy holiday season by protecting your teeth and keeping sugar intake at a minimum. Here are five more ways to protect teeth over Halloween and holiday season:

1.  Avoid the grazing habit. It’s easy to snack on holiday cookies, sweets and candies throughout the day, especially if you’re spending time at home and just relaxing. Avoid keeping these sweet treats within arm’s reach, and consciously decide to bring them out only for special events or when guests are visiting. Your teeth – and waistline – will thank you.

2. Enjoy some sugar-free candy. There are several sugar-free candy alternatives to the usual lineup of holiday candies, and you can enjoy a piece of candy once or twice per day if it’s a sugar-free version of your favorite. A low-sugar diet can also prevent the sugar high-and-crash cycle that often trigger rapid mood swings and anxiety. Keep sugar-free candy on hand to keep everyone’s mood stable – and preserve those teeth in the process.

3.  Squeeze a dental cleaning session into the holiday schedule. Get yourself and the kids on a healthy track for the holidays by booking a dental appointment for teeth cleaning. Keeping the teeth clean and healthy and learning about any cavities or potential tooth problems can get everyone motivated to eat healthy foods and keep their teeth in great shape when temptation strikes over holiday season.

4.  Give away extra Halloween candy. Sugar is the culprit behind tooth decay, corroding tooth enamel and even gum problems. If you have excess Halloween candy on your hands, consider donating it to a food pantry or local charity so your household doesn’t end up consuming the extra sugar this season.

5. Keep up with a consistent blush-and-floss routine. Brushing your teeth at least twice per day and flossing after each session can keep excess sugar off the teeth, prevent tooth decay and stop plaque buildup. Keep up with your healthy routine so that your mouth is fresh and clean – even if your diet isn’t up to par. If you don’t know how to floss correctly, ask your dentist about tips on flossing and products that can help you get started.

Learn more about dental procedures and treatments available in your area by reviewing our information guide, or consult with a general or cosmetic dentist in your area for a consultation and treatment plan that will take care of your teeth.