Ask Dr. Poggio: What's the deal with Halloween candy?

Trick-or-treat! In the spirit of today's sweet and spooky holiday, Dr. Valeria Poggio and our team at Otay Lakes Orthodontics would like to remind all of our patients to be safe while celebrating with friends and family tonight. Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists were kind enough to provide trick-or-treaters with some tips for a ghoulishly good time.

• Young children should always be accompanied by an adult
• Carry a flashlight
• Wear a light-colored or reflective costume
• Choose face paint over masks for young ghosts and goblins
• Have an adult inspect all treats before the children dig in

Dr. Poggio and team suggest looking for foods that are soft, such as soft chocolate that can melt in one’s mouth or peanut butter cups. Otherwise, candies that aren’t sticky, chewy, hard or crunchy are generally acceptable.

The 411 on Halloween treats, from Dr. Poggio & Otay Lakes Orthodontics

For parents in Chula Vista worried about kids going overboard on candies, sugar and other sweets, Halloween is a dreaded annual event (no pun intended).

All those sweet, sour and sticky candies may taste great, but these treats are known to damage teeth, as well as braces! Did you know sour candies can be acidic to your teeth, and actually wear down the enamel that protects them? This can cause tooth decay and cavities! Sour and fruity candy, such as Starburst and Skittles, are the worst for your child’s teeth since these candies have a low pH value, which can ruin enamel.

In addition, we also want your child to steer clear of sticky, chewy, gummy and nutty goodies. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends softer treats, such as soft chocolate or peanut butter cups, or melt-in-your-mouth foods. Trick-or-treaters who indulge should make sure they brush and floss between teeth, around brackets and at the gum line. If damage occurs, call Dr. Poggio as soon as possible.

So what's a parent to do?

As Halloween draws nearer, try to limit the amount of these candies that your child eats, and when your child does eat them, either have him or her rinse their mouth with water afterward or have them drink some milk or eat a slice of cheese.

Hope this helps! Happy Halloween!