Holiday candy can be tough on your smile! But some candy can be easier on your teeth than others. How do you know which options are better? Here are our top Valentine’s Day candy shopping tips to help you shop with confidence.
Why Candy Can Hurt Your Teeth
To start our Valentine’s Day candy shopping tips, let’s begin by discussing why candy can hurt your teeth.
Most candy contains high amounts of sugar. Lots of foods naturally have sugar, but when foods like candy contain a lot of added sugars, it can throw off the delicate balance of your mouth and create an environment that is more prone to develop cavities.
This is because when sugar interacts with your saliva, it feeds the naturally occurring bacteria in your mouth, which can not only create an overgrowth of bacteria but also produce an acid that is damaging to your teeth.
Better Candy Options
Not all candy is created equal. Some candy is tougher on your teeth (like sticky or chewy candy that tends to leave behind a sugary residue), but there are also lots of candy options that don’t contain harmful amounts of added sugar!
So, what should you look for in candy to help limit its negative impact on your dental health? One of our top Valentine’s Day candy shopping tips is to look for candy that is labeled “sugar-free.” Most stores stock a wide variety of candy options that are made with alternative sweeteners, so it’s typically easy to find just what you’re looking for in a sugar-free version.
Dark chocolate can be a great choice if you prefer candy made with regular cane sugar. This is because dark chocolate contains less sugar than milk or semi-sweet chocolates. And because chocolate melts in your mouth, the sugar it does contain doesn’t tend to linger as long on your teeth. Just remember to brush your teeth well afterward!
Your Dentist Can Help!
Your dentist is a great resource if you have more questions about Valentine’s Day candy shopping tips! They will be happy to help you find ways to enjoy your favorite Valentine’s Day traditions without putting your or your loved one’s dental health at risk.
Call our Imperial Dental Office, to make an appointment with a dentist who may be able to help you find out more about this topic, and improve your oral health.