In August, I had the opportunity to
interview Dr. Salzer - a renowned dentist AND a mother of four! She provided a Crest giveaway and she is also one of the founders of
Braced-lets and provided another giveaway! This week, I was able to ask some more dental hygiene questions - it's especially on my mind as I am seeing ALL the sugar that is ALREADY around!
Laurel: What is the best candy for kids and their teeth on Halloween?
Dr. Salzer: Gummy candies and taffy are more likely to lead to tooth decay, particularly when they get stuck in-between teeth making it difficult for saliva to wash away. Try sticking to sugar-free lollipops and hard candies – these treats stimulate saliva helping to prevent dry mouth. A dry mouth allows plaque to build up on teeth faster, leading to an increased risk of decay and cavities. It's key to make sure they don't snack on it over a long period of time. It's better to let them eat whatever pieces they select and then get busy brushing!
Laurel: What can I do as a parent to encourage teeth brushing, especially with the tweener age that doesn't really get motivated with gimmicks?
Tweens often have their own tastes and style so it can be difficult at times for them and their parents to see eye-to-eye. When it comes to oral care products, they no longer are interested in the children's products, while at the same time adult products can often be too spicy or too big for a tween's mouth. I've found that with my children the Crest and Oral-B Pro-Health FOR ME line really works well as it is made just for them. The toothbrushes are just the right size for their mouths and the toothpaste and rinse flavors are a good balance of minty and sweet. Giving tweens their own unique, non-gimmicky, products can help encourage independence and healthy habits.
Laurel: Any tips for encouraging independence in children's oral care routines?
Dr. Salzer: I believe the best way to help children develop better brushing habits is to instill a routine at an early age. My favorite way to keep my kids on track with their oral care is to create a “morning routine” checklist for them to follow each day. It features all the steps they need to take in the morning to get ready for school including brushing, flossing, making the bed and more. At the end of every month the one with the most check marks receives a small prize. It is a great way to help your children take responsibility for their oral care with minimal prodding from you.
Laurel's thoughts: I., who is 9, really does like the Crest FOR ME line. She likes the big kid tooth bushes - not adult brushes, but they also don't have pictures of Disney Princesses. We do have a chart for our kids and it works for my girls, but my boy - who really needs it - could care less. I'm not sure my thoughts on Halloween candy - for the most part, we try to stay peanut and tree nut free in this home, so hard candies are a bigger hit. Maybe I'll get a bag of sugar-free lollipops and see if I can sell it to my kids!
Thanks for your time Dr. Salzer!
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