Enjoying Easter Candy

by | Apr 1, 2022 | Dental Care

Candy is a popular gift during the Easter holiday. Should you worry about your teeth when enjoying Easter candy? You don’t have to! Let’s talk about the best and worst candy options for your teeth so you can satisfy that sweet tooth while also protecting your teeth.

Candy to Avoid

It may be surprising to hear, but not all candy is the same. Some candy can affect your teeth more than others. While candy may never be considered a “health food,” it can be helpful to know which candy is less impactful to your dental health so that you can make healthier choices when enjoying Easter candy.

Types of candy to avoid include sticky or chewy candies. The chewier and stickier a candy is, the more that it sticks around long after you’ve enjoyed it, leaving a sugary residue on the surfaces of your teeth.

Sour candy is another culprit. This is because it is acidic in addition to being sugary, which can lead to more erosion of your tooth enamel or the outer protective surface layer of your teeth.

Hard candy, such as suckers or jawbreakers, can be tough on your teeth, too, because it takes much longer to eat them, resulting in a longer period of time that your teeth are in contact with sugar.

Safer Alternatives

Chocolate is one of the most popular Easter candies and it’s also one of the safest candy options for your teeth! Chocolate melts in your mouth and is easily washed away, so it doesn’t leave behind as much of a residue as other types of candy might. Chocolate also contains compounds that might assist in hardening your tooth enamel, so chocolate may actually help your teeth resist cavities!

Keep in mind that milk chocolates and other sweetened varieties contain high amounts of sugar, so dark varieties are preferable and all types of chocolate should be enjoyed in moderation.

Sugar-free candy is also a great option since sugar is the top reason why candy can cause cavities in your teeth. Sugar-free varieties can be found in nearly endless flavors and textures to suit every sweet tooth.

Ask Your Dentist

If you have more questions before enjoying Easter candy, don’t hesitate to ask your dentist! They will be happy to offer advice so you can enjoy the holiday without compromising your dental health.

Call our Chandler, AZ, dental office, to make an appointment with a dentist who may be able to help you find out more about this topic, and improve your oral health.

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