All Halloween candy is not created equal. That's why every kid knocks on a front-door hoping to get a Snickers or a Pixie Stick, or whatever their favorite treat might be. Some candy is more delicious, no doubt.
But also some candy is worse for children's teeth than others, according to Dr. Douglas Young, professor of dental practice at the University of the Pacific, Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry.
Dr. Young thinks that even around Halloween parents should consider what's going into their kids' mouths--especially since over 50 percent of children between the ages of 12 and 15 have at least one untreated cavity. To prevent cavities, Young advises parents to control the quantity and frequency of your kids' candy consumption as well as the actual types of treats.
Here's a rundown of what the latest research confirms is "really bad," "better," and "best" for little teeth.
But also some candy is worse for children's teeth than others, according to Dr. Douglas Young, professor of dental practice at the University of the Pacific, Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry.
Dr. Young thinks that even around Halloween parents should consider what's going into their kids' mouths--especially since over 50 percent of children between the ages of 12 and 15 have at least one untreated cavity. To prevent cavities, Young advises parents to control the quantity and frequency of your kids' candy consumption as well as the actual types of treats.
Here's a rundown of what the latest research confirms is "really bad," "better," and "best" for little teeth.
1. REALLY BAD
Chewy or sticky candy
Examples: caramel, taffy, gummy candy
"These types of candy can stick to the teeth long after kids are done eating them," says Dr. Young. "Bacteria in the mouth feed off the sugar in these candies and produce acid, which in turn can cause cavities and other mouth problems."
"These types of candy can stick to the teeth long after kids are done eating them," says Dr. Young. "Bacteria in the mouth feed off the sugar in these candies and produce acid, which in turn can cause cavities and other mouth problems."
Hard candy
Examples: lollipops, suckers
"Similar to sticky candy, these types of candies take extended amounts of time to dissolve, thus the mouth is exposed to sugar for a long period of time," says Dr. Young.
Sour candies
"Similar to sticky candy, these types of candies take extended amounts of time to dissolve, thus the mouth is exposed to sugar for a long period of time," says Dr. Young.
Sour candies
Examples: lemon drops, sour straws
"Higher acid content in sour candy makes the mouth more acidic and breaks down the tooth enamel quickly," says Dr. Young. "This highly acidic environment leads to a much greater risk for tooth damage."
2. BETTER
Chocolate
"Higher acid content in sour candy makes the mouth more acidic and breaks down the tooth enamel quickly," says Dr. Young. "This highly acidic environment leads to a much greater risk for tooth damage."
2. BETTER
Chocolate
Example: chocolate bar
"Various studies have shown that chocolate is less harmful for teeth than other sugary foods because of a natural anti-bacterial compound in the cocoa bean which 'cancels out' some of the harmful effects of sugar in the mouth," Young says.
"Various studies have shown that chocolate is less harmful for teeth than other sugary foods because of a natural anti-bacterial compound in the cocoa bean which 'cancels out' some of the harmful effects of sugar in the mouth," Young says.
3. BEST
Candy or gum containing xylitol
Example: Xclear candy, Trident gum
"Xylitol is a naturally-based sugar that actually helps prevent cavities," Dr. Young says. "Bacteria in your mouth are unable to ferment xylitol, thus harmful acids are not produced. Xylitol candy, mints and gum are available at most health food stores, online and through your dentist. But please note that Xylitol is not safe for pets."
One more piece of advice from Dr. Young: The best time to eat candy is after a meal because the mouth's saliva is already working to move food (and sugar) out of the mouth. Moms should try to make Halloween candy a dessert treat for kids, rather than a snack between meals.
"Xylitol is a naturally-based sugar that actually helps prevent cavities," Dr. Young says. "Bacteria in your mouth are unable to ferment xylitol, thus harmful acids are not produced. Xylitol candy, mints and gum are available at most health food stores, online and through your dentist. But please note that Xylitol is not safe for pets."
One more piece of advice from Dr. Young: The best time to eat candy is after a meal because the mouth's saliva is already working to move food (and sugar) out of the mouth. Moms should try to make Halloween candy a dessert treat for kids, rather than a snack between meals.
Read More: http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/sfmoms/detail?entry_id=50362
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