What candy is okay for kids?
While all candy should be enjoyed in moderation, some options are better for your child’s dental health than others. It’s important for parents to be aware of which treats are less harmful and which ones pose a higher risk to their children’s teeth. As dentists, we don’t recommend consuming large amounts of sugary snacks, but we also understand that a child will enjoy candy from time to time. To help you make informed choices, we’ve outlined which candies are safer for your child’s teeth and which ones are more likely to contribute to cavities.
Worst candies
Chewy and Sticky Candies: These types of candy are a major cause of tooth decay. They tend to get lodged in the grooves of teeth, making it difficult for saliva to rinse them away and for toothbrushes to clean effectively. This allows sugar to linger on the teeth longer, increasing the risk of cavities.
Examples include:
- Caramels
- Gummies
- Taffy
- Licorice
Sour Candy: Sour candies can be especially harmful to your child’s teeth due to their high acidity, which can erode tooth enamel quickly. While saliva helps neutralize acid and restore the mouth’s natural pH within about 30 minutes, brushing too soon after eating sour candy can actually spread the acid and cause more damage. It’s best to wait at least 30 minutes before brushing.
Examples include:
- Sour hard candies
- Sour worms
- Sour Patch Kids
- Sour belts
Sugary Candies and Snacks: The longer sugar remains in your child’s mouth, the more acid is produced by bacteria—leading to enamel erosion and cavities. Treats that contain high amounts of sugar, or are made almost entirely of sugar, pose the greatest risk to your child’s dental health.
Examples include:
- Candy corn
- Popcorn balls
- Cookies
- Cake
Candy that is ok for kids
Sugar-Free or xylitol Lollipops Candies:
These candies stimulate saliva production while being enjoyed, which helps prevent dry mouth and reduces plaque buildup. Because they last longer, your child is likely to consume less overall.
Examples include:
- Sugar-free Life Savers
- Sugar-free Werther’s Originals
- Xylitol lollipops
- Sugar-free hard candies
Sugar-Free or Xylitol Gum: When enjoyed in moderation, sugar-free gum can actually benefit your child’s dental health. Chewing helps dislodge food particles that can lead to cavities and boosts saliva production, which helps reduce plaque buildup.
Examples include:
- Xylitol Gum
- Sugar-free Dubble Bubble
- Sugar-free Bubble Yum
- Sugar-free Hubba Bubba
- Extra Dessert Delights
Dark Chocolate:
Dark chocolate is one of the healthiest types of chocolate, thanks to its antioxidants and heart-friendly benefits—it’s even been shown to help lower blood pressure. However, it still contains sugar, so it should be enjoyed in moderation.
Examples include:
- Hershey’s Special Dark
- Dark chocolate pumpkins
- Dark chocolate bars
Choose Xylitol-Sweetened Treats:
Swap out traditional candies for those made with xylitol, a natural sugar substitute that not only satisfies sweet cravings but also helps fight cavity-causing bacteria. Gum, mints, and candies containing xylitol offer a tooth-friendly alternative for enjoying treats without compromising oral health.
Encourage Water Throughout the Day
Remind your child to drink water regularly, especially after eating sweets. Water helps wash away food particles and sugar, keeping their mouth cleaner and reducing the risk of cavities between brushings.
Lead by Example
Kids are more likely to develop good dental habits when they see their parents doing the same. Make brushing and flossing a family activity, and use the time to talk about why taking care of your teeth is important—during the holidays and all year round.
By making thoughtful choices and promoting healthy habits, you can keep your child’s teeth protected while still enjoying all festivities.
For more tips or to schedule your child’s next dental visit, don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, let’s keep those smiles bright and healthy all year long!
Keep your child’s smile bright by choosing healthy snacks
If you have any questions regarding your child’s dental health call our office and the team at Sorenson Pediatric Dentistry will help answer any questions you might have.
Call us and schedule your child’s appointment today: (702)586-4347
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