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New Patients: 855-599-5581
It is that time again when kids eagerly collect bags full of candies during their door-to-door trick-or-treat adventures, and adults are bombarded with sugary sweets in the grocery aisles or haunted by all the treat-or-treat leftovers in the kitchen cabinet. It can only mean one thing – Halloween is here. While we fully appreciate the joy and significance of this tradition, it’s equally important to understand which candies pose the greatest threat to dental health. As your trusted dentist in Charlottesville, we’re here to shed some light on the worst offenders when it comes to cavity-causing candies.
Candy Corn
Whether you’re a fan or not, candy corn is always present during the autumn season. Despite its seemingly healthy name, this treat can spell trouble for teeth. Its sticky nature means it clings to teeth long after consumption, and its high sugar content provides a feast for those pesky sugar-loving bacteria that can wreak havoc on your teeth.
Taffy
This delightful confection comes in a plethora of mouthwatering flavors and vibrant colors, but don’t be fooled by its charm. Taffy not only contains a substantial sugar content but is also one of the stickiest treats around. This dual threat makes it detrimental to dental health as it can linger on teeth, and its stickiness can even harm dental restorations like fillings.
Lollipops
Lollipops and similar candies like jawbreakers or hard candies that require prolonged sucking sessions expose teeth to sugar for an extended period, which is a recipe for trouble. The longer the candy takes to consume, the more time sugar has to cling to teeth and induce damage.
Sour Candy
Sour candy not only delivers a hefty sugar dose but also adds an acidic punch to the mix. Acid can weaken tooth enamel, rendering teeth vulnerable to sugar-related damage. Excessive consumption of sour candies might necessitate a visit to your dentist in Charlottesville.
Popcorn
While popcorn may not be sweet, it’s a common find in trick-or-treat bags and an easy nightly snack. Popcorn’s sugar content is relatively low, but it conceals a hidden danger – those sneaky unpopped kernels. Biting down on them unexpectedly can result in tooth damage, leading to broken teeth or the harm of existing dental fillings.
You might not be able to entirely eliminate the temptation for these treats during Halloween, and that’s perfectly fine. What matters most is that you enjoy these indulgences in moderation and follow a daily dental hygiene routine that includes brushing and flossing. Additionally, make sure to see your dentist in Charlottesville at least every six months for checkups.
Dr. Kayton and all of his wonderful staff are friendly, professional, and competent. I’ve sent friends and family to them for years.
Great, pain-free dentistry, and a wonderful group of people! My teeth and gums are in better shape than they were when I was far younger, thanks to the great teamwork of Dr. Kayton and his outstanding dental technicians! Two thumbs up!
Excellent visit as always!
Dr. Kayton and his team took good care of me and did a great job. I have my beautiful smile back!
What a great experience. It’s always difficult to find a good dentist when you move to a new area. I look forward to my next visit.
Prompt, congenial, well organized, professional, and patient friendly.
Dr. Kayton and his staff are professional, friendly, and caring people. Every experience with them has been superb. I highly recommend this practice.
I completely trusted Dr. Kayton. He offers the highest tech equipment, has the nicest staff and takes the time to make sure you understand his evaluation.
Painless dentistry. Dedicated and compassionate staff. Efficient. The most complicated dental work I have had has been done here; also the most pleasant and painless.
