Best and worst Halloween candy for your teeth
Halloween is fast approaching.
Before your kids dig into that trick or treat candy, it's a good idea for parents to know what snacks are the best to eat.
Insurer Delta Dental released its annual list of the best and worst kinds of treats for your teeth.
The worst, sticky and chewy candies, such as candy corn, gummy bears and caramel. Doctors say they can get stuck in the teeth easily. Candy corn is also full of sugar and sour candies have high acid levels that break down tooth enamel. Also, jawbreakers are hard enough to chip your teeth.
"When sugar remains on teeth for extended periods, bacteria feeds on it and produces cavity-causing acid," said Michel Couret, the company's chief dental officer.
The best, plain chocolate.
Dentists say that's because it melts so quickly, decreasing the amount of time sugar is in contact with your teeth. However, the benefits go down when there are nuts and caramel inside because they are more harmful to your teeth.
"It is best to avoid letting children snack on candy throughout the day, and it is important that kids brush their teeth or at least rinse with water after eating sweets," Couret said.
Or you can opt for sugar-free gum and lollipops.