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It’s that time of year where one holiday after another offers us a barrage of sugary treats. You may be able to control your sweet tooth as you get older, but kids tend to find candy irresistible. As Halloween approaches, do you already have your little ghosts and goblins scheduled for their next bi-annual dental cleaning? Your Temecula dentists at Oasis Family Dental invite you to brush up on your cavity knowledge before the sugar binges ensue.

Sugar is Only Part of the Cavity Equation

Have you ever looked at a child’s Halloween night candy haul and said, “that’s enough sugar to keep a dentist in business for a year?” Many people believe that sugar contacting your teeth is the sole cause of tooth decay. Sugar definitely plays a big part in the cause of cavities, but there would be no tooth decay without bacteria known as Streptococcus mutans. S mutans feed on sugar, and turn it into lactic acid. This acid is what weakens tooth enamel, and allows tooth decay to happen. Normally tooth enamel, the hardest substance in your entire body, can keep the inner workings of your teeth protected. When sugar-fueled bacteria have their way, however, cavities can become imminent.

All Candy is Not Created Equally

Chocolate is the one candy that has the distinction of possibly inhibiting the growth of S. mutans. The American Dental Hygienist’s Association (ADHA) notes that chocolate has a built-in defense mechanism that implicates the rich treat less than other candies when it comes to cavities. Theobromine – found in the cocoa bean – can help to harden tooth enamel. Of course, most of the chocolate bars that will be handed out on Halloween night are laced with abundant sugar, high-fructose corn syrup, processed peanut butter (made with more sugar) and other ingredients that will do more harm than good to your teeth.

Visit Your Temecula Dentists

If you are due for a dental checkup, contact your Temecula dentists. Only your dentist can determine the cause and best treatment option to help you feel better. Contact our 92591 dental office by calling (951) 695-2290 to schedule an appointment today. We welcome patients from Temecula and all surrounding communities.