As a local family dentist, I've developed a scary Halloween candy list. Each one can easily break or crack a child’s tooth:
• Boulder-sized jawbreakers • Rock hard gumballs • Jolly ranchers
Sticky sweets are also a nightmare because they tend to get stuck in the pits and grooves of the teeth. If the sugars from these chewy candies make their way onto the teeth and are not properly brushed away, children are more at risk for cavities:
• Suckers • Fruit snacks • Skittles • Starburst • Candy Corn • Caramels • Tootsie Rolls • Peanut butter kisses
This year, consider placing smaller treats into youngster’s plastic pumpkin holders rather than king-sized candy bars. They can pack up to 40 grams of sugar each!
There are also relatively inexpensive and healthier alternatives that can be handed out instead. I've started a list here. Please add to it in the comment section:
http://bloglakeshore-familydentistry.com/the-most-harmful-halloween-treats-for-your-teeth/
