It’s not just the winter holidays that keep the sugary candies and treats around your child. There are so many celebrations throughout the year that seem to involve candy and sweets. From Valentine’s Day to Easter to Halloween, it seems to be a non-stop fest. These are great chances to set the tone for healthy dental practices and still enjoy life. Your local dentists in Wilmington, DE offer some helpful tips:
Eat before You Indulge
It’s not always possible to plan ahead, but if possible try to ensure your child enjoys a nice, healthy meal before they start eating sweets. Not only do you teach them that their chocolates aren’t considered a meal, but it can also stop them from eating too much on an empty stomach.
Portion out their Sweets
You don’t have to completely nix dessert; indeed it may be impossible if they also get candy at school, at their friends’ houses, or when around family. Showing them what you consider to be a good amount versus too much could help them when they make their own decisions later on.
Not all Sweets Are Created Equal
Dark chocolate is rich in flavonoids, which studies have shown has antioxidants, may improve cognition, and lower the risk of diabetes. In small amounts, this can be a guilt-free indulgence. Hard candies can be risky when chomping down and can lead to a dental emergency like chipped teeth. Soft, sticky sweets are loaded with sugar that may not completely dissolve around your teeth.
Rinse Your Mouth
After a birthday party or holiday celebration centered on cake and cookies, it’s not a bad preventative to have your child rinse their mouth with mouthwash to remove as much sugar as possible. Sugar-free gum is another good alternative to increase saliva and help remove sugar.
We live in a world that loves sugar. Short of hiding under a rock, we can’t avoid it or be around our child every time someone offers them a cupcake. However, you can practice some small tips to prevent cavities and other dental mishaps. By limiting your portions and preventing sugar from coating your teeth, you can practice preventive dental care.
For more tips on oral health make an appointment for a dental checkup today with your Wilmington, DE dentists. We’d love to see you today!
