The Best and Worst Halloween Candy for Your Teeth

You don’t have to give up candy this Halloween. Just be smart about what you (or your kids) reach for first.

The Worst Offenders

Sticky stuff: Caramel, taffy, and gummy candies cling to teeth, feeding bacteria for hours.
Sour candy: It’s acidic enough to weaken enamel in minutes.
Hard candy: Jolly Ranchers or lollipops can chip teeth—and they stay in your mouth a long time.

The Safer Picks

Plain chocolate: Melts quickly and rinses away easily.
Peanut butter cups: Soft and low-acid.
Dark chocolate: Less sugar, more antioxidants.

What To Do After

Rinse with water right after candy

Wait 30 minutes, then brush

Make floss part of the post-candy routine

Got a dental emergency after Halloween? We’re here for you.