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How to enjoy the treat without the trick!
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Posted on Oct 30 2008
[B]By LORI I. SERNA RDH, MED.[/B]
[I]Special to the Saipan Tribune[/I]
It is that time of the year again when children and children at heart dress up and go in search of that forbidden fruit, or should I say candy. Halloween without candy is like Winter without snow and since it is inevitable that the children as well as adults will indulge in some candy, here is some advice to increase the joy without increasing the risk for cavities.
It is important to remember that candy and sweets do not cause cavities. It is a fact that plaque when left on tooth structure (enamel) will form an acid that will make a hole in the tooth, which we refer to as a dental cavity. However eating a lot of candy can be a factor in developing many dental cavities. So what is the healthiest way to savor the many sweets that “trick-or-treating” bring?
-Be safe: Always check the candy and keep only the candy that looks unopened and safe to eat, make sure and adult is with you when you check the candy
-Pace yourself: divide the candy into small “piles” of 2-3. This way instead of eating all at once and risking a tummy ache, you can enjoy your sweets for a week or even longer.
-Eat smart: eat your small pile right after lunch or dinner. This will decrease the chances of getting a cavity because you will prevent in between snacking.
-If you must eat candy in between meals always follow up with a glass of water so that the sugar is rinsed from your mouth and the neutral environment of your mouth can be maintained.
-Don’t forget to visit your Dentist/Dental Hygienist twice a year for a check-up.
Have fun and have a great and safe HALLOWEEN!
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October is National Dental Hygiene month and the SDA Dental Clinic is offering FREE dental exams, please call 234-6323 to schedule your appointment.
[I]Lori I. Serna RDH, Med. is a dental hygienist at the Seventh Day Adventist Dental Clinic.[/I]
