Dental providers in Abilene say Halloween sweets can pose challenges for oral health, and that regular preventive care and informed choices can help lower the risk of tooth decay. National Dental Hygiene Month highlights daily brushing, flossing and routine dental visits.
Jessica Martin, a dental hygienist at Abilene Dental Care and Orthodontics, recommends brushing twice a day, flossing every day and scheduling checkups every six months. Martin said candy can cause problems and that acid can cause decay, so it is important to catch decay early.
Ashley Pham, a doctor of dental surgery at the same practice, said sticky sweets such as caramel and Laffy Taffy can dislodge dental sealants, which protect vulnerable areas of teeth from cavities. Pham recommended chocolate as an alternative because it melts in the mouth and is easier to rinse out with water.
Pham also described patient communication as central to building trust and improving oral health habits, saying providers aim to start where patients are, such as brushing once a day, and work toward the overall goal over time.