How to keep your teeth healthy this Halloween

With Halloween right around the corner, bags of free candy will be looming in your house, tempting everyone from kids and teens to parents. So how can you keep your mouth healthy in the midst of all that sugar? Check out these tips, great for Halloween and year-round health.

The timing

If you're going to eat sugary food, like Halloween candy, eat it with or shortly after meals. Why? Your saliva production increases during meal times, helping to cancel out the acids created by mouth bacteria.

Snack smarter

Your risk of cavities increases when you snack, especially if you're snacking on sugary treats. Avoid sweets that stay in your mouth for a long time, like hard candy. The length of time the candy stays in your mouth increases your chance at tooth decay.

Avoid sticky candy

If gummy or taffy candies are your favorites, think again - sticky candy stays on your teeth and takes longer for saliva to wash it away.

Limit your candy intake

Having bowls of candy around increases the temptation to eat a little every day, but if you have a plan, your mouth will thank you. Check out local organizations that donate candy to the troops and have your kids choose a few of their favorite pieces before giving the rest away.

Increase water intake

Drinking water is great for your overall health, and it's especially good for tooth decay prevention. Look for fluoridated water for optimal health.

Check sugarless gum

Choose a sugar-free gum and chew it for 20 minutes after meals to reduce your chance at tooth decay - the gum increases your saliva flow, helping to wash out the food while neutralizing acid.

Be sure to brush

Make sure you're brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes with a fluoride toothpaste, replacing your brush every 3-4 months (or sooner if bristles are frayed or if you've been sick).

Visit the dentist

For the ultimate cleaning, be sure to make an appointment with your dentist every 6 months.