CANDY THAT’S GOOD FORYOUR TEETH Halloween is fast approaching, and pretty soon there will be candy everywhere. Contrary to popular belief, dentists don’t hate candy — we just prefer our patients to eat only a little at a time and brush their teeth afterward. In fact, there is even one kind of candy that many dentists recommend because it’s actually good for your teeth: sugar-free chewing gum.
The American Dental Association (ADA) recognizes the fact that chewing gum can help keep your teeth clean and strong. But this doesn’t mean you should let your kids chew an entire pack of Dubble Bubble between meals. The ADA notes that only sugar-free gum has cavity-fighting benefits. Chewing gum that contains sugar, like Dubble Bubble, can actually create a layer of dental biofilm and acid, which covers the teeth and breaks down the enamel, leading to cavities. However, sugar-free chewing gum has the opposite effect. As the name implies, sugar-free chewing gum lacks sugar, which is what cavity-causing bacteria feed on. This means that sugar-free gum doesn’t create acid on your teeth. Additionally, the physical act of chewing gum increases saliva flow. This may sound gross, but extra saliva is really good for your teeth. It helps clear away food particles and bacteria, thus protecting against dental erosion.
When picking out your gum while in line at the grocery store, look for packs that display the ADA Seal of Acceptance. This seal is only awarded to chewing gums that have demonstrated that they meet “objective requirements for safety and efficacy, as evaluated by the ADA Council on Scientific Affairs.” Basically, the ADA Seal means the gum is good for your teeth. It’s important to keep in mind that chewing gum, even gum that has earned the ADA Seal, cannot replace daily brushing and flossing. However, chewing a piece of sugar- free gum between meals can help keep your teeth clean throughout the day.
Have a Laugh!
Spooky Strawberry Ghosts
• 16 oz white chocolate, chopped • 24 strawberries • 1 package mini dark chocolate chips Ingredients
Inspired by Candiquik.com
Directions
1. In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the white chocolate at 50% power for 30 seconds. Remove it and stir, then repeat the process until melted. 2. Lay out a sheet of parchment paper. 3. One by one, dip the strawberries into the melted white chocolate and set them on the parchment.
Allow the extra chocolate to pool to form a “tail” effect. 4. Before the chocolate coating fully cools, add three mini chocolate chips to each berry to form two eyes and a mouth. 5. Let chocolate set, then serve your spooky snacks!
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