OAKVILLE — With Halloween treats filling homes across Canada, dental experts are reminding families that protecting teeth isn’t about skipping the fun — it’s about being smart about when and how candy is enjoyed.
According to Dr. Karen Man, co-lead dentist at SmileGrove Dental in Oakville, sticky, chewy, and sour candies pose the biggest risk to your smile because they cling to enamel and keep sugar in the mouth long after the candy is gone.
“It’s perfectly fine to enjoy some Halloween candy,” said Dr. Man. “The key is balance — timing and texture matter much more than the number of treats.”
Which Candies Are the Worst for Teeth?
The Canadian Dental Association (CDA) says sticky candies like caramels, gummies, nougat, and dried fruit are the most damaging since sugar gets trapped between teeth, feeding bacteria that cause cavities.
Sour candies are harmful because of their high acidity, which weakens enamel, while hard candies can chip teeth or prolong sugar exposure as they dissolve slowly.
Why Chocolate Is a Safer Choice
If you’re picking from your Halloween stash, experts say plain chocolate is the best option. It melts quickly, washing away faster than sticky or sour candy.
Dark chocolate, which contains less sugar, is even better.
“The longer sugar lingers, the more chance bacteria have to produce acid and damage enamel,” Dr. Man explained.
How to Reduce Damage After Eating Candy
Experts recommend a few simple habits to protect your teeth:
- Drink water right after eating sweets to wash away leftover sugar.
- Chew sugar-free gum to boost saliva flow, which helps neutralize acid.
- Eat candy after meals when saliva levels are highest — saliva naturally protects enamel.
- Wait 30 minutes before brushing, since brushing too soon can spread acid and erode enamel.
Tips for Parents
Halloween is also a great time to teach kids about moderation. Dr. Man advises parents to:
- Allow candy only after dinner and store the rest out of reach.
- Encourage kids to drink water between bites.
- Make brushing fun with Halloween-themed toothbrushes or stickers.
- Keep a consistent brushing (twice daily) and flossing (once daily) routine.
“A little moderation and a steady routine go a long way toward keeping young smiles healthy,” said Dr. Man.
The CDA also suggests using smaller trick-or-treat bags or trading candy for small toys or activities to reduce sugar intake.
Halloween may be a night for sweets, but with a few smart steps — water, timing, and good brushing habits — you can enjoy the treats without scaring your teeth.