Watch out for too many sweet treats!

The days have just become shorter, the leaves are falling and Halloween and Bonfire Night are officially here. Both holidays, especially Halloween, have increased in popularity over the years as we embrace the larger celebrations of the day seen in America.

It was originally named Mischief Night when it started in the UK many, many years ago, and unfortunately with all the sweet treats and indulgent food around, it could certainly cause mischief with your teeth if you're not careful!

The Good & The Bad Treats

There are good and bad treats to consume at this time of year, plus treats that are just that - treats, and won't do you any harm if you rarely consume them. The worst offenders are most definitely sticky sweets because not only are they in your mouth for a while whilst you chew, but they get into all the little parts of your teeth and gums possible and stay there doing damage until they dissolve or are removed. The bacteria gets loads of time to make nasty acid which your teeth are bathed in. Hard sweets are similar, but they don't stick to your teeth but instead expose them to acid and sugar for a long period of time.

Plain chocolate is certainly better than sticky or boiled sweets, and, as long as it doesn't have any fillings, it won't stick to the teeth for too long. Treats that could be considered the best options are anything sugar free like gum, which actually helps create saliva which helps combat nasty bacteria, and toffee apples because munching on the apple after you eat the toffee helps break down and get rid of sweetie residue.

Moderation

Ideally, you will consume some treats but not lots of them, as this is a season of indulgence and it is so easy to get swept away in the festivities without considering the consequences on your health and your teeth. The odd treat won't hurt you as long as it really is consumed in moderation.

Limiting The Damage

To limit the damage Halloween or Bonfire Night sweeties have on your teeth:

●     Continue to attend your regular appointments with our TW20 Egham dental practice

●     Continue your dental hygiene routine, brushing twice a day for at least two minutes

●     Drink water after consuming anything sugary or acidic to help rinse away nasties

●     Chew sugar free gum after meals to increase saliva production

●     See one of our Egham dental team right away if you think you have signs of a dental issue, the sooner it is addressed the sooner it can be identified and resolved

●     Eat before you attend your party or event and you will be less likely to indulge in unhealthy eating

Contact Crown House Dental, Egham

Perhaps you want to discuss cosmetic dentistry for Christmas, or you need to register with a new surgery? Either way, please call 01784432641 and one of our staff will be more than happy to help you.

Have a safe, and happy Halloween & Bonfire Night!