How to Keep Your Sweet Tooth from Souring Your Oral Health

Pasadena, CA - Busy Pasadena CA dentists are commonly asked about candy in the fall. With Halloween and the holidays right around the corner, patients want to know — "Will too many sweets rot my teeth?'

H. Robert Stender DDS, INC. of THE SCIENCE OF SMILES® says rest assured, a little candy here and there won't sour your oral health. "It is all about the type of candy you eat, moderation and, of course, brushing and flossing your teeth," says Dr. Stender.

No matter which way you analyze it - candy is candy. It has a lot of sugar (sometimes 100-percent)… and sugar can contribute to tooth decay. Chewy caramels and other gummy-like candies also stick to teeth,making those pearly whites even more susceptible to decay. "Even dried fruit, like raisins, are rough on
teeth," adds Dr. Stender.

Halloween candy and sweet tooth indulgences are okay - but instead of reaching for the gooiest treats in the Halloween bag or on the holiday buffet table, Dr. Stender advises patients to choose:

Sugar-free lollipops and hard candies (ie. Jolly Ranchers)

Sugar-free gum

Dark chocolate

Fruit - particularly apples.

Sweet and salty granola

Popcorn balls

Sure, a Snickers bar on occasion will not force your teeth to fall out, but lack of brushing and flossing will! No matter what you eat this Halloween and upcoming holiday season, be sure to take the time to brush, floss, and rinse with water after every meal and sweet indulgence.

Your teeth are one of your best assets - and with a little effort, Dr. Stender says you can keep them looking sparkling through the New Year and beyond!

About H. Robert Stender DDS, INC. and THE SCIENCE OF SMILES® - Dr. Stender is a leading family and cosmetic dentist in the greater Los Angeles CA area who specializes in laser dentistry, innovative cosmetic dental care, and chronic pain management. Dr. Stender has been in private practice in Pasadena CA for more than 30 years.