These Halloween candies are the worst for your teeth, according to a dentist

Each year in the US, approximately 35 million children play tricks on Halloween — and studies show that each child can consume up to three cups of sugar while eating the candy they collect.

While no candy is good for teeth, some types are worse than others, according to Dr. Kevin Sands, a board-certified cosmetic dentist based in Beverly Hills, California.

Sands shared with Fox News Digital which Halloween treats to limit or avoid altogether.

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Here are his tips.

5 Types of Halloween Candy to Avoid

Hard candy

Jaws and suckers can be especially damaging the teethwarned Sands.

While no candy is good for teeth, some types are worse than others, according to one dentist. Check out his health-focused insights. (iStock)

“Not only do these candies run the risk of chipping or cracking your teeth if bitten down too hard, but their prolonged presence in your mouth provides bacteria with a long sugar feast,” he said.

“This could potentially lead to cavities.”

Sticky or gummy candy

Taffy and caramel can be especially troublesome, Sands said.

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“Their sticky nature means they often get stuck in the nooks and crannies of teeth, making them difficult to remove even after brushing,” he said. “These sugar residues can promote bacterial growth and tooth decay.”

Sour candies

Along with the tantalizing sweetness of tarts comes an alarmingly acidic kick, the dentist warned.

“Many sour candies have a pH level dangerously close to battery acid,” Sands noted. Continued exposure to such acidity can cause enamel to break down, leading to sensitivity and other dental problems.

Hard candies, such as gummies and lollipops, can be particularly harmful to teeth, a California dentist warned. (iStock)

Sugar-free candy

It may seem like sugar-free sweets are a tooth-friendly choice – but these often contain citric acid, which, despite the lack of sugar, can damage enamel, the dentist said.

Chewy candy

Chewy candies like nougat and coffee can stick to teeth, providing a breeding ground for harmful bacteria.

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“These bacteria can then produce acids that erode the enamel and cause tooth decay,” the dentist said.

7 Less Harmful Candy Options

For those who want to indulge without too much damage to their teeth, Sands recommended sticking to the following desserts.

Chocolate is fast-digesting, has reduced sugar content and is rich in antioxidants, making it a “tooth-friendly treat”, one dentist said. (iStock)

Chocolate: When comparing candies, chocolate seems to be a slightly safer option. “It dissolves quickly and is less likely to get stuck in or between the teeth,” the dentist said. “In particular, dark chocolate, with its reduced sugar content and rich antioxidants, may be a more tooth-friendly treat.”

Candy powder: Powdered candies, such as

The smart ones: This type of candy dissolves quickly in the mouth, minimizing the time the sugar is in contact with the teeth.

Raisins covered with yogurt: “While they contain sugar, yogurt-covered raisins are less sticky than caramel- or brownie-based candies,” Sands said.

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Nuts: Nuts, such as almonds or peanuts, have minimal sugar content and are a better choice for dental health, Sands said.

Mini Popcorn Packs: Plain or lightly salted popcorn can be a lower-sugar option than many other candies, according to the dentist.

Sugar-free chewing gum: “Sugarless gum can promote dental health by stimulating the production of saliva, which helps neutralize acids and clean the mouth,” Sands said.

Children should get into the habit of brushing and flossing after consuming any type of candy, a dentist said. (iStock)

Tips for promoting children’s dental hygiene

“Encourage children to consume sweets in moderation and to be careful good oral hygiene brush and floss after consuming any type of candy,” Sands recommended.

Additionally, offering alternatives such as small toys or non-edible treats can be a great way to enjoy Halloween without compromising dental health, he added.

Below are the dentist’s most important tips for children to maintain optimal dental health and hygiene.

Encourage regular brushing and flossing: Teach children to brush their teeth at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste. Additionally, encourage flossing once a day to remove food particles and plaque from between the teeth.

Use fluoride toothpaste: Choose an age-appropriate fluoride toothpaste for your child. Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel and prevent tooth decay.

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Encourage water consumption: Water helps to rinse your mouth and neutralize acids produced by bacteria in your mouth after eating candy or snacks.

Promote healthy foods: Choose healthier snack options like fruits, vegetables, cheese and nuts. These choices are not only nutritious, but also less harmful to dental health.

Schedule regular dental checkups: Dental professionals can detect early signs of problems and provide guidance on proper oral care.

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“Following these recommendations and encouraging a healthy dental routineyou can help your child develop good oral hygiene habits that will benefit them throughout their lives,” Sands said.

For more health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health.