Avoiding Tooth Decay After Halloween

Dental cavities could cause serious problems for the health, function, and beauty of your smile. Without treatment, these could even mean infections! Which is why during the Halloween season, kids and adults alike need to care for their smiles. In today’s blog, your Newhall, CA, dentist talks about preventing the onset of cavities after Halloween.

The Dangers of Cavities

Tooth decay forms when harmful oral bacteria reach the inner dentin, the sensitive material that composes most of your tooth. This only happens when the outer enamel is compromised, and eating too many sweets can do just that. When we eat too much candy, this leaves behind particles of sugar clinging to the teeth or become stuck between them. As bacteria break them down, this elevates oral acidity and creates a bacterial byproduct known as plaque, which coats the enamel and weakens it, exposing the dentin. The decay then grows and spreads with time, causing an infection without treatment. Which is why we need to take action to protect our smiles this time of year!

Protecting Smiles at Home

At home, kids and adults alike need to limit how much candy they consume, limiting themselves to a piece or two a day. Try to reserve them for just after a meal, which increases saliva production can help cleanse away the sugars. Following them with a glass of water can help too. Everyone also needs to brush when they wake up and again before bed for about two minutes each session. Be sure to use a fluoride toothpaste too, as this strengthens the outer enamel. Flossing is also essential as this removes what a toothbrush can’t reach. You can also offer your kids the chance to trade their excess candy to you for money or a small toy, and you can give out non-candy options like temporary tattoos, stickers, or party fairs like plastic spider rings or little bats and skeletons!

Checkups, Cleanings, and More

You can also help by seeing us for a checkup and cleaning. We can watch for signs of decay and take action to treat it quickly with a filling. We also clean the teeth to remove harmful plaque and tartar, and can offer treatments like fluoride gel and dental sealants to safeguard little smiles. A visit now is a chance to use your remaining dental insurance benefits before they expire at the end of December. If you have additional questions, then give us a call today.

Talk To Your Newhall, CA Dentist About Staying Cavity-Free

We would like to help children enjoy optimal oral health all year. If you would like to learn more about preventing the onset of a dental cavity, then contact your Newhall, CA, dentist, Dr. Tajik, by calling (661) 259-7760.