There’s no better time than October to recognize National Dental Hygiene Month, as increased candy consumption can threaten children’s teeth and gums.

Dr. Daniel Nelson with Springbrook Family Dentistry in Guthrie Center says he doesn’t want to dissuade children and adults from enjoying Halloween candy, but he advises which treats can leave a frightful effect, “Avoid the real chewy candies like the caramels and the gummies that increases the time on the teeth which we don’t want. Of course it’s stickier, it’s harder to clean off, also avoid the hard candies as well. Again (they) take the time in your mouth that increases the amount of sugar, and then some of them have different acidities in them which can wear away the teeth as well. So as far as candy goes chocolate is preferable for us because it dissolves pretty quickly.”

Nelson recommends for children to eat candy in moderation and preferably after meals. Drinking water afterwards can also help rid acid from causing more damage on teeth and gums.