A toothache is just a toothache—until it isn’t. Untreated cavities can cause pain and infections that can lead to problems eating, speaking, playing and learning, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Nearly half of all children ages 2 to 11 in the United States will develop cavities in their baby teeth. One in five children ages 6 to 11 will develop cavities in their permanent teeth, according to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. And Halloween, where candy consumption is high, is a time of year that especially puts children at risk.
But as parents, you can help prevent cavities by encouraging good dental hygiene habits and a healthy diet. We spoke to an expert to find out what sugar does to little teeth and how to protect them.
Dr. Scott W. Cashion, D.D.S., M.S., is a pediatric dentist with more than two decades of experience and currently serves in the role of Immediate Past-President for the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. According to Cashion, here’s what parents need to know.
What does sugary candy do to children’s teeth?
When a child consumes sugar, the harmful bacteria in their mouth turns the sugar into acid that causes enamel to soften [and] then eats away at the enamel on their teeth. As the harmful bacteria spread and [overpower] the healthy pH in saliva, [the child’s] mouth becomes much more susceptible to cavities and gum disease.
What kinds of candy (hard, soft, sour, etc.) are the most harmful to children’s teeth?
Sticky, hard and sour candy are all harmful to children’s teeth. The stickier the candy, the worse it is for little ones’ teeth. Sugary candy sticks in the crevices in their teeth and is difficult to remove, meaning it will stay on the teeth longer, which allows more tooth decay -causing bacteria to feast on the sugar and multiply.
When a child eats hard candy, such as lollipops or candy canes, they keep the candy in their mouth longer while they suck on it. This increases the amount of time their teeth are exposed to sugar—which means a higher chances of cavities.
Lastly, sour candy is harmful for two reasons: it is coated in sugar, and it is very acidic.
While sugar causes cavities, high acidity can be very damaging to your teeth as well. The acids break down tooth enamel, leaving teeth more prone to tooth decay and breakage.
What are some tooth-friendly alternatives?
As far as “best candies,” I would recommend dark chocolate or any other type of chocolate in addition to sugar-free gums and candies. These candies will satisfy your child’s sweet tooth while protecting their teeth.
Are there any ways to mitigate the harm to teeth caused by sugary favorites?
Drink plenty of water and brush and floss your teeth after eating candy! This will help wash away the sugar. Good brushing and flossing habits are key to helping prevent cavities forming on the teeth. If you know that your [child] is going to have a higher amount of candy, focus more on the brushing and flossing.
