How to make the Halloween festivities cavity-free

With more Australian children celebrating Halloween each year, Dental Health Services Victoria (DHSV) is urging Victorians to take care of their teeth during this spooky season.

If thinking about the impact of all that sugar gives you chills, we’ve got some handy tips to help your little ghouls and goblins avoid creepy cavities this Halloween.

DHSV CEO Dr Deborah Cole said while it is unlikely that veggies will replace lollies this Halloween, it is vital that we take steps to protect our fangs.

"Research shows that tooth decay is the most common health problem in the country,” said Dr Cole.

“More than half of Victorian children aged three to five have signs of tooth decay.”

Dr Cole added that with some simple steps tooth decay is entirely preventable.

“Reducing the amount of sugary foods and drinks in your diet and brushing regularly are the best steps for better oral health,” she said.

DHSV’s top tips for enjoying your Halloween bounty while avoiding tooth decay:

• Eat, then treat

Enjoy your Halloween treats at mealtimes to neutralise sugary acids

• Say boo to bad breath

Brush your teeth twice a day to remove plaque and avoid bloodcurdling breath

• Drink a glass of tap water after eating your Halloween sweets

Wash away the sugars that create acids and cause decay

Happy Halloween!