NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Oct. 09, 2008) — With Halloween fast approaching, Delta Dental of Tennessee is warning parents of the terrors of tooth decay brought on by sticky holiday candy.

“Candy and treats that stay on the teeth or can uproot fillings are definitely the dental goblins of Halloween,” said Dr. Jed Jacobson, D.D.S., M.S., M.P.H., chief science officer at Delta Dental. “We should all avoid handing out such treats and parents might even consider a colorful new toothbrush as the last Halloween surprise of the evening.”

Long-lasting candy treats create an acid attack on the teeth the entire time they are in the mouth and for another 20 minutes after they are gone. The scariest treats this Halloween include the many varieties of gummy candy, chewy fruit snacks, caramels, hard candies and bubblegum.

A better option is to offer treats that melt quickly in the mouth, such as plain chocolate pieces. They aren’t as hazardous to dental work and are easier to brush away. If children do eat hard candy, they should follow it up with a glass of water or milk, both of which can help rinse sugar away from the teeth. Chomping on crisp fruits and vegetables helps clean off sugary residue, too.

Dr. Jacobson also recommends that kids should have a healthy, nutritious meal or snack before going out Trick-or-Treating so they aren’t as hungry later. Of course, there’s no substitute for proper brushing and flossing at the end of the evening.

“If children indulge in Halloween treats, it is imperative they brush soon afterward and certainly before they go to bed,” Jacobson said. “Parents go to great lengths to keep their kids safe while Trick-or-Treating and they need to be just as vigilant when enjoying the Halloween candy haul, too.”