December is full of sugary joys: cookies, candy canes, caramel popcorn. But all that sweetness can take a toll on your child's teeth. At Huntington Smiles, we believe holiday treats can still be fun and smile-friendly. Here's how to strike the right balance.
Treats to Limit (or Tweak):
- Sticky sweets like taffy and caramel cling to teeth and are hard to brush away.
- Hard candies like candy canes can chip enamel and dissolve slowly, coating teeth in sugar.
- Dried fruit might seem healthy, but it's sugar-dense and sticks like candy.
Tooth-Friendlier Alternatives:
- Chocolate (especially dark) dissolves quickly and is less likely to stick in grooves.
- Soft baked goods like banana bread or pumpkin muffins are gentler on teeth.
- Fresh fruits like apple slices or oranges offer natural sweetness plus hydration.
Smart Habits During Sweet Season:
- Encourage kids to eat sweets after meals when saliva is flowing.
- Avoid grazing on sugary snacks throughout the day—it increases acid exposure.
- Offer water after treats to rinse away sugars if brushing isn’t possible.
Holiday Treat Tip: Let your child pick a few favorite treats to enjoy mindfully, then trade excess candy for a small toy or experience.
Enjoying the season doesn’t have to mean sacrificing dental health. With a little planning, your family can celebrate and protect those little smiles.
