Protect your children from tooth decay with these ideas for a sugar free Halloween

A report by the Royal College of Surgeons (RCS) published earlier this year – see press release – showed tooth decay was the most common reason five to nine-year-olds were admitted to hospital.

Approximately 46,500 children and young people under 19 were admitted to hospital with tooth decay in 2013-14, with 25,812 in the five to nine age group, a 14% increase since 2010-11.

Say NO to tooth decay due to Halloween treats!

With worrying statistics like this we wanted to help you to protect your children’s oral health by offering some alternatives to the usual sugar packed sweets and chocolates handed out to children at Halloween.

All the supermarkets now offer healthier options to sweets and chocolates, why not try Nakd Bars or Bear Fruit Snacks, both are tasty but healthier alternatives.  Remember though that these snacks do contain fruit sugars so should be eaten in moderation and children should be encouraged to brush their teeth after eating them.

Popcorn is a cheap and sugar free alternative.  Don’t buy the microwave stuff that contains unnecessary sugar and fat and is expensive.  Buy a big bag of popping corn, prepare it in a pan and fill a huge bowl with it.  The trick or treaters will enjoy digging in for a good handful.

For ideas of refined sugar free cake and cookie recipes take a look at the Hemsley & Hemsley website.  You’ll find a wealth of recipes that are free of refined sugars, designed by sisters Melissa and Jasmine Hemsley.

Reducing the sugar content and frequency of sugary drinks and snacks in your children’s food is a step towards protecting their oral health.  Make sure that they are brushing their teeth at least twice a day and that the brushing is effective.  Don’t overlook regular visits to the dentist.  At Smile Concepts we welcome new patients, take a look at our website for more information.  We also offer the Smile Concepts Denplan Essentials Monthly Membership Scheme, children under 6 are free and children over 6 are just £4 per month.