For those who celebrate, Easter can be a magical time. You get to paint colorful eggs, join in choir singing, and celebrate the arrival of the spring season. Perhaps the best-known part of it, though, is when the “Easter Bunny” hops along with baskets full of treats and sweets! Kids and adults alike will munch on these candies when the fateful Sunday arrives. However, keep in mind that these Easter candies aren’t great for oral hygiene. That said, avoid dental issues this Spring by being cautious of these four sweets.
#1 – Peeps
For those who don’t know, Peeps are soft marshmallows shaped and colored like baby chickens. The resemblance to little chicks is what earned them their name.
While tasty, peeps are notorious for having ingredients harmful to teeth. They use artificial dyes like Yellow No. 5 and Yellow No. 6, which contribute to hyperactivity in children and cause tooth decay.
The next time you get a craving for these little “chicks,” opt for sweet potatoes cut into fun Easter shapes like bunnies, flowers, and eggs.
#2 – Cadbury Eggs
As you might expect, given their chocolate and caramel, Cadbury eggs cause damage to teeth. Their filling also has corn syrup that contributes to obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
This Easter, try homemade deviled eggs as a substitute. You can even dye them with veggies like beets, cabbages, or onions.
#3 – Milk Chocolate Bunnies
Chocolate bunnies can come in various sizes, ranging from small to large. That often makes them a fun treat to have over multiple days but awful for teeth and gums.
You see, consuming chocolate over an extended period increases your tooth enamel’s exposure to sugars and acids. When you repeatedly subject your teeth to these harmful substances, it can cause tooth decay.
Instead of sugary milk chocolate this season, have some dark chocolate — it’s surprisingly good for your body and teeth!
#4 – Jellybeans
Jellybeans are chewy candies shaped like beans. Unfortunately, their texture often leads them to get between teeth. When that happens, harmful oral bacteria will grow and damage your tooth enamel.
A good substitute for jellybeans would be almonds or cacao nibs. The former has calcium and fiber that trigger saliva production. Meanwhile, the latter has a crystalline extract that strengthens tooth enamel.
No one’s saying you can’t have a little of your favorite Easter treats. Still, keep the risks above in mind and exercise moderation.
About the Practice
Dentistry by Design is based in Bartlesville, OK. As led by Dr. Luke Lumpkin, its team works hard each day to provide patients with quality dental care. To that end, the practice’s treatments span preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry, not to mention emergency procedures. Plus, excellent results are further assured through the latest, modern dental technology. For more information or to book an appointment, you can reach them at their website or by phone at (918)-336-6777.