If it’s October 31st in your neighborhood, then you can be certain there are children racing as fast as they can run from door to door to collect as many treats as possible. You may have spent countless hours decorating your house for the trick or treaters who’ll grace your doorstep this Halloween, but have you thought about what treats you’ll pass out? What are the best oral health goodies for your trick or treaters this Halloween?
Best Oral Health Goodies
When it comes to passing out candy-type treats, not all treats are alike when it comes to the health of a child’s smile. Set the tone in your neighborhood by passing out better for your teeth options, such as:
· Sugar-free candy and gum with xylitol: While ordinary sugar (sucrose) allows bacteria on your teeth to grow more active, which can cause cavities, xylitol keeps the pH levels in the mouth neutral and prevents bacteria from sticking to the teeth. It is thought that consuming xylitol works to stimulate saliva and actually protect the teeth from enamel erosion and cavity causing bacteria.
· Chocolate bars: Yes, chocolate bars contain sugar, but the confection melts quickly and doesn’t stick to teeth the way sticky candies do. This means the time the sugar stays on the teeth is reduced.
· Pixie Sticks: This powdered candy is nothing but a shot of sugar. However, it melts quickly and doesn’t stick to the teeth, which helps minimize the impact on the teeth.
Non-Candy Treats
There is no law that says you have to pass out candy to children. A treat can be anything that the child appreciates and enjoys. Try goodies, such as:
· Small stuffed animals
· Bouncy balls (only to kids over three)
· Money
· Glow sticks
· Stickers
Don’t Be That House
The last thing you want to do is pass out the “treat” that makes all the kids avoid your house next year. Halloween is one of the holidays that is meant for children to enjoy a bit of indulgence. Try to stick with treats you would have enjoyed as a child. Be creative with the treats, and you can minimize the damage to kids’ oral health while still keep the holiday fun for the kids.