Halloween is all about fun, costumes, and of course—candy. While it’s perfectly fine to enjoy the treats of the season, it’s also important to keep your oral health in mind. At Manus Dental Lake Zurich, we want to help you and your family enjoy Halloween without letting cavities crash the party.

Start by being mindful of the type of candy you eat. Sticky or chewy treats like caramels and gummies tend to cling to teeth longer, increasing the risk of decay. Sour candies are acidic and can wear down enamel. If you’re going to indulge, it’s better to eat candy in one sitting rather than snacking throughout the day, which constantly exposes your teeth to sugar.

Timing also matters. Enjoying candy after a meal helps because your mouth is already producing more saliva, which helps rinse away sugars and acids. Follow up with a glass of water to help clean your mouth, especially if brushing isn’t immediately possible.

Brushing and flossing are key. Encourage kids (and adults) to brush twice a day for two minutes using fluoride toothpaste, and don’t forget to floss once a day to remove debris from between teeth. Halloween is also a good time to check in on toothbrushes—if bristles are frayed, it’s time for a replacement.

Finally, as we head into the final months of the year, don’t forget to take advantage of your dental insurance benefits. Many plans reset on January 1, and any unused benefits could go to waste. If you haven’t had your routine cleaning or checkup, now is the perfect time to schedule an appointment.

Manus Dental Lake Zurich is here to keep your smile healthy—during Halloween and all year round. Give us a call today to get on the schedule before the year ends.

For more information, or to make an appointment, please contact:

Manus Dental Lake Zurich

365 Surryse Rd., Ste. 170

Lake Zurich, IL 60047

Ph: 847-852-7475

manusdental.com