Top 10 Halloween Candy for Kids with Braces

You many never win the sugar war but you can win the battle between brace busting picks and candies that will melt in your child’s mouth. October is National Orthodontic Health Month. Ironic when you consider your child is likely to pack away more sugar in the month of October than any other month out of the year.

“While I believe in everything in moderation, there are some sugary treats your child should pass on if they are in the process of orthodontic work,” said Dr. George Kast, Kast Orthodontics, Strongsville, Ohio. “Hard and sticky foods can break off brackets and bend wires. Sugary food can get trapped in braces causing tooth decay. Indulging in these types of treats on a regular basis can prolong treatment.”

“Caramels, licorice, gummy treats, should all be avoided,” said Kast. But, don’t despair one of your child’s favorites is sure to be on this list.

Here are Dr. Kast’s top 10 best Halloween Candy Picks:

1. Plain M&M

2. Hershey Bars

3. Kit Kat Bar

4. Hershey Kisses

5. Three Musketeers

6. Malt Balls

7. Sweet Tarts

8. Peppermint Patties

9. Cookies and Cream

10. Snow Caps

It turns out that these may just be what your child is looking for! According to the National Confectioner’s Association 68% of children prefer chocolate treats, 9% chose suckers as their favorite, 7% favored gummy treats and 7% voted for gum.

More good news from the National Confectioner’s Association: most children – 66%, if they had plenty of candy, would share it with family. Followed closely by 64% of kids who said they would share with friends and 26% who would be willing to share with teachers. But, just what is plenty of candy? Hmmm.

Dr Kast earned his Dental Degree (DDS from The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio) and his Masters Degree / Orthodontic Certificate (MS from The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio). He is a member of the Cleveland Society of Orthodontists serving over the years as Peer Review Chairman, Program Chairman, Secretary/Treasurer, Vice President and President. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics, the highest level of certification that can be achieved by an orthodontist and is currently the only Board Certified orthodontist in Strongsville, Ohio.