The Easter celebration is a pivotal moment in the year that officially welcomes the spring season. At this time, millions of people indulge in their favorite sweet delights. However, dentists warn that excessive sugar consumption is one of the leading causes of tooth and gum decay. Thus, participating in the normal festivities could be detrimental to your dental health. Continue reading to learn about 4 Easter candies that can be particularly troublesome and discover the difference that proper oral hygiene can make.

#1 – Peeps

Like most candies, Peeps contain their fair share of sugar that attracts bacteria. However, that’s not the only threat they pose. They also contain two harmful dyes: Yellow No. 5 and Yellow No. 6. While they give the candies their rich-bright color, the dyes can further contribute to oral decay.

An Alternative

As a less detrimental substitute for Peeps, consider cutting sweet potatoes into fun Easter shapes like chicks, bunnies, flowers and eggs. By adding a touch of cinnamon, you can enhance the sweet potatoes’ natural flavor.

#2 – Milk Chocolate Bunnies

Chocolate covered bunnies may be the most notable Easter candy. Because of their size, they usually take days to consume, which bathes the teeth in sugar and acids. Doing this repeatedly can leave your teeth subject to enamel damage.

An Alternative

Instead of milk chocolate, you can switch to dark chocolate. It’s a better option because it contains less sugar and is actually beneficial for your teeth. That’s because it’s full of antioxidants that help to prevent plaque and the development of periodontal (gum) disease. Just be sure to choose a small dark chocolate bunny, as portion control is still important.

#3 – Cadbury Eggs

With Cadbury eggs, you’re getting sugar from the chocolate or caramel mixture that covers the eggs. To make matters worse, the filling contains corn syrup, which encourages oral decay and a host of other health issues, like obesity, diabetes and heart disease.

An Alternative

A healthier alternative is to make homemade deviled eggs. You can dye the eggs using natural pigments from turmeric, beets, cabbage, onions and hibiscus.

#4 – Jelly Beans

Not only are jellybeans loaded with sugar, but they are also extremely sticky. By clinging to the teeth, they can more rapidly attract oral bacteria that wear down the enamel.

An Alternative

Another option to consider is to cover almonds in dark chocolate or to try cacao nibs. While almonds contain calcium and fiber that trigger plaque-fighting saliva production, the crystalline extract in cacao nibs strengthens tooth enamel.

Other Ways to Protect Yourself

In addition to following the above guidelines, it’s important to brush and floss your teeth after consuming any delight, whether it’s considered a healthier option or not. You’ll also benefit greatly from visiting a dentist in Farmington before or after Easter, just to make sure your teeth and gums are as healthy as can be. With the right strategy, you can enjoy some Easter fun without having to worry about compromising your dental health!

About the Author

Dr. Leslie Metzger earned her dental degree from The Ohio State University College of Dentistry. Throughout her career, she has maintained a fervor for continued learning, which is why she has received postgraduate training from the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies and other reputable organizations. Dr. Metzger helps patients experience the absolute best in dental health at Monet Aesthetic Dentistry, and she can be reached for more information through her website.