Halloween is just around the corner and that can only mean one thing- trick or treating! Whilst this is an absolute right of passage for kids, a night where core memories are made, and family fun is had, it is also the one night a year where children gorge on sweet treats non stop and consume a frightening amount of sugar, with some of the worst-offending sweets containing up to 17g in just one handful.
Hygienist Hannah Ripley recommends opting for low-sugar sweet options like jelly sweets and yogurt-covered fruit. Popcorn drizzled with chocolate can also make a fun but healthier treat.
“Children can still enjoy their treats but it’s vitally important to be aware of how much sugar they are consuming and the potential impact on their teeth. My advice is to limit extra sugar intake from sweets to no more than 20g a day which is roughly the equivalent of 5 sugar cubes.”
5 Tips to support children’s oral health while still enjoying the treats this Halloween:
- Ensure children brush their teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Leave at least 30 minutes after eating acidic foods before brushing to avoid eroding the tooth enamel.
- Limit sugary snacks and drinks and replace with healthier options such as a fun fruit skewer or popcorn.
- Introduce interdental cleaning when 2 teeth touch between the ages of 2 and 6 and ensure children “clean between” once a day.
- If eating sweet treats, it’s better to eat them in one sitting rather than spreading them out throughout the day and increasing acid contact with teeth.
Introduce flossing
Did you know 77% of tooth decay starts between the teeth but a toothbrush alone cleans just 60%* of the tooth? To hit the other surface areas that the toothbrush can’t reach, the importance of adding interdental cleaning cannot be overstated. Oral hygiene products such as DenTek’s floss picks and interdental brushes are vital and can be introduced at an early age. In fact, dentists recommend children start interdental cleaning as soon as two teeth are touching using. As regular flossing products are sometimes difficult for children to use, it is recommended that they use interdental products designed specifically for children and under supervision.
Don’t be tricked by the treats and terrifying sugar levels this Halloween and enjoy the treats without the toothache thanks to DenTek.