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Putting on costumes for Halloween is fun, but the real rockstar of the holiday is the candy. Everybody has their favorites, the dad tax, candy we take from the kids's haul when they fall asleep. But some sweets are worse for your teen than others. Dentists reveal the worst candy for your chompers and what you can eat instead
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- Gummy candies - Dr. Hajera Ali, a dentist in New Jersey, admits he has a sweet tooth and that his personal favorite, gummies, happen to be one of the worst for teeth. He explains that they stick to teeth and have to be chewed more than other candies, so the sugar is in contact with teeth longer. Gummies can also stick to hard-to-clean areas, like between teeth.
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- Caramels - These also take a long time to dissolve, making caramels another worse for your teeth candy.
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- Sticky candies, like Starburst - “These act like little sugar bombs that hang out in the hard to reach crevices of your teeth until they finally dissolve,” explains cosmetic dentist Dr. Joyce Kahng. Plus, they can also be tough on crowns and fillings by sticking to them and pulling at them.
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- Sour candies - The problem with these treats is that they’re extremely acidic. “It's all about balance. Literally. Keeping the pH in your mouth close to neutral (seven) is the name of the game," explains dentist Dr. Aaleeyah Alim. "For reference: water, which is neutral, has a pH of seven and battery acid has a pH of one. Your teeth start to decalcify, or break down, at a pH of four. Some of the worst candy for your teeth is Wonka Fun Dip, Pixy Stix powder, and Now and Laters. The pH of those are all below two!"
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- Chocolate - Thankfully, dentists say this is a better Halloween candy option because it can be eaten quickly and washes away from teeth easily after brushing.
Source: Insider