Halloween trick or treating is an exciting time for children. But, too many treats can affect your child's teeth. The Grey Bruce Health Unit wants to make sure that Halloween treats won't leave your child with a jack-o-lantern smile.

Fun alternatives to candy

If you are concerned about the amount of candy that your child will receive, try rationing it over a few weeks. Another choice would be to let your child trade in Halloween candy for a video game, book, toy or trip to the movies. By reducing the amount of candy your child eats and by teaching your child that moderation is important, you won't have to worry about tooth decay and Halloween will still be fun.

Sugarless candy and gum or string cheese are healthy treat alternatives to hand out on Halloween night. You can also give out fun toys and gifts like Halloween themed stickers, pencils, erasers, temporary tattoos, vampire teeth or toothbrushes and floss.

To keep the cavities away and to ensure a healthy smile, follow these tips:

Limit the number of sugary treats or snacks between meals. Serve snacks that will not harm your child's teeth, such as vegetables, cheese, nuts or seeds.
It is best to eat sugary treats at the end of mealtime while there is still plenty of saliva in the mouth. Saliva helps to wash away the sugars and acids.
Drinking water after eating a sugary treat to help wash away some of the sugars.
Avoid soft, sticky treats that get stuck between teeth.
Always have your child brush and floss before going to bed

For more helpful tips and activities for healthy smiles at Halloween, visit the Canadian Dental Association at:

http://www.cda-adc.ca/en/oral_health/cfyt/dental_care_children/halloween.asp