Between Cadbury crème eggs, jelly beans, chocolate bunnies, and Peeps, Easter candies are everywhere you look this time of year. Although tasty to eat, they are packed full of sugar, offering no nutritional value whatsoever. When consumed in moderation, they’re fine and pose little threat to your oral health; however, when the Easter Bunny leaves behind a basket full of goodies, the temptation to overconsume becomes quite real. To minimize your risk for poor oral health, here are four candies you should limit to keep your smile looking and feeling beautiful.
4 Candies to Limit This Easter
If you want to avoid the potential for serious dental work in the future, here are a few Easter candies you’re advised to eat in moderation:
- Jelly Beans – These chewy candies may seem harmless, but their sugary contents make it easy for them to become stuck between teeth, causing bacterial growth and harmful acids to eat away at the tooth enamel.
- Peeps – They may look cute, but they’re filled with nothing but sugar and harmful dyes. Often connected to behavioral conditions in children (i.e., ADD, ADHD), they’re also known to cause tooth decay.
- Cadbury Eggs – Sugar, corn starch, and caramel are often found in these deliciously-wrapped eggs. Although they’re exciting to unwrap, they contain ingredients that can lead to tooth decay as well as contribute to weight gain, diabetes, and other cardiovascular problems.
- Chocolate Bunnies – Unless you’re digging into a dark chocolate bunny, which is a bit healthier, the milk chocolate version contains more sugar, resulting in serious tooth decay and cavities.
Ways to Minimize the Negative Effects of Easter Candy
One of the most effective ways to prevent serious oral health problems during Easter is to simply avoid these treats altogether. Look for alternative food options that will be equally satisfying such as deviled eggs, dark chocolate nuts (i.e., almonds), or sweet potatoes.
Also, you should plan to:
- Drink lots of water while consuming any type of candy or sugary foods.
- Avoid snacking on candy throughout the day. Consume only during a specific mealtime.
- Rinse immediately after you finish eating candy.
- Wait 30 minutes or longer to brush your teeth after eating Easter treats. This will prevent harmful acids and bacteria from spreading and eroding your tooth enamel.
Most dentists and dental professionals will say everything is fine in moderation. If you want to indulge in a few pieces of Easter candy, just make sure you take heed of the tips provided to reduce your risk of serious tooth decay.
About the Author
Dr. J. Darrell Steele is a trusted oral surgeon who has decades of experience. After earning his dental degree from Baylor College of Dentistry, he underwent an oral and maxillofacial surgery residency, focusing on jaw surgery, cosmetic facial surgery, and dental implant placement. Leading the team of professionals at Steele Dental, he is committed to helping patients embrace life with healthier, more vibrant, and beautiful smiles. If you or a loved one want to learn how you can take better care of your oral health, visit our website or call (972) 315-3355.
