Sweets are a fundamental part of Valentine’s Day. Whether you’re expressing your affection or just treating a friend, they’re a staple of the holiday. Unfortunately, they also pose a major risk to your children’s teeth by speeding up the decay process. The staff at Dean T. Sueda, DDS, MS, in Honolulu, HI, want to share several candies your children should avoid. Doing this will ultimately keep their teeth healthier and prevent unwanted trips to the dentist.

3 Valentine’s Day Candies Dentists Suggest Avoiding

1. Chewy & Gummy Candies

When sugary foods are allowed to sit on your teeth, bacteria feast on them, in turn creating harmful cavity-causing acids. Because sticky and gummy candies are so difficult to remove from the teeth, they’re a major contributor to decay. They’re difficult to get from crevices and they also tug at any existing fillings or bonds. Ask your dentist about healthier alternatives for your children.

2. Hard Candies

Although many hard candies seem lower in sugar, they pose just as much of a risk as other forms. Because you suck on them, sugar is consistently distributed throughout your mouth. It also has more time to settle on your teeth since you aren’t swallowing them. Hard candies can even cause breaks and chips which require emergency dental care.

3. Sour Candies

Although they’re a nice change of pace, sour candies are one of the worst for you. They earn their flavor from high concentrations of acids that immediately begin attacking your enamel. Often, they are gummy or hard candies as well, making them a significant risk to your children’s teeth.

For more dental advice and reliable services, turn to a dentist at Dean T. Sueda, DDS, MS. They offer comprehensive general and preventative dentistry services and are committed to ensuring your children’s mouths are healthy. Call (808) 944-1603 today to schedule an appointment with a dentist and visit their website to learn more about their practice.