By Dr. Iman Sadri
Despite misconception, it’s not only Halloween candy that causes cavities. Any carbohydrate based food that is left on teeth can lead to the formation of cavities. That includes bread. If the food item has glucose as its unit byproduct of energy (biochemistry tidbit), the bacteria from the biofilm of plaque can consume this glucose. The acid released as an excrement of this glucose breakdown is what leads to tooth decay. Being Halloween eve it’s important to discuss the Top 5 Candies that are in my opinion, the worst candy for your teeth.
During Halloween season candy becomes more prevalent as does the rhetoric of Dental Cavities. The worst candies are the ones that stick to teeth the longest and the ones that are hardest to chew. Here is my Top 5 list of the Worst Halloween candy.
#1) Jolly Ranchers
Jolly Ranchers not only stick to teeth but are also hard to chew, which makes them the worst of both worlds.
#2) Sour Patch
This popular yet extremely sugary and sour candy stick to teeth for a lengthy period. When the candy sticks to the teeth they become hard to brush off as well.
#3) Starburst
Starburst has moved into other food genres, acting as a flavor of icy drinks at Taco Bell. This well advertised candy comes in multiple flavors, and also sticks to the teeth for a prolonged period.
#4) Gummy Bears
Despite any systemic health benefits that may come from Flintstone’s Gummy Vitamins, I highly advise against them. They stick too long to teeth and are difficult to brush off. The daily or multi-daily consumption for vitamin use makes them a bad idea.
#5) Lollipops
Lollipops are hard and sticky and stay in the mouth a long time. They also are eaten after being in the mouth for an extended, giving another reason they should be avoided.
@DrImanSadri is the founder of @LASmileMagazine and @ThePersianObserver
