Your kids or grandkids have their costumes ready. They are eager to fill a bag or bucket with candy.

We hope you have a great time trick-or-treating, and we do want you to enjoy some sweets afterward.

We don’t want you to lose your smiles to tooth decay, which is why we want to share some simple tips for this Halloween and many holidays to come.

1. Don’t Eat Too Much

Sounds simple, right? We also know how difficult it can be to resist the temptation of a giant bowl of candy sitting on the kitchen counter. A great way to combat this is to have a plan before you get the candy. Talk to your kids about when to eat sweets (after a meal) and how much to eat (set a limit for one sitting and how often per day).

2. Drink Water

With many kinds of candy, especially chewy and gummy candy, small particles can stick to your teeth. Drinking water while you eat can help loosen and rinse away those particles, so they don’t become fuel for harmful bacteria in your mouth.

3. Keep Brushing & Flossing

Water may not remove all those particles, which is why it is important to keep up your daily brushing and flossing. Brushing will remove much of the candy residue from your teeth. Flossing will clean the places that your toothbrush can’t reach.

Of course, you also should come to see us regularly for professional cleanings and exams as well. Call Glendale Gentle Dentistry today at 623-244-4304 for an appointment in Glendale, AZ. You can also schedule online.