As featured on WRIC’s Showcase Richmond, Dr. Dani Tart of Midlothian Dental Center explains how parents can protect children’s smiles after Halloween candy.

Halloween may be all about candy, but it doesn’t have to spell trouble for your child’s teeth.

Dr. Dani Tart, family and cosmetic dentist at Midlothian Dental Center’s Bon Air location, was recently featured on WRIC’s Showcase Richmond to discuss the biggest dental issues children face following Halloween and what parents can do to help.

‍You can read the full story on WRIC here.‍

‍“The biggest thing is to limit the intake and the duration the kids are eating candy.” — Dr. Dani Tart

Dr. Tart explains that the amount of time sugary residue stays on teeth is often more harmful than the total amount of candy eaten. Sticky candies, gummies, and lollipops can linger on enamel, and get stuck between the teeth, feeding cavity-causing bacteria for hours.

Common Post-Halloween Dental Issues:

• Cavities from the prolonged sugar exposure.
• Tooth sensitivity from weakened enamel.
• Cracked or chipped teeth from hard or sticky candies.

“We want to prevent the pain, the infection, the emergency, so if they are saying something feels different, it is always good to bring them to the dentist.” — Dr. Dani Tart

‍Dr. Tart’s Tips for a Healthy Post-Candy Smile:

• Limit the duration of candy exposure.
• Encourage water after sweet treats to rinse away sugar and acid - brush if possible.
• Choose chocolate over sticky or hard candy
• Brush and floss before bed - no exceptions
• Schedule a checkup to keep small issues from becoming big problems.

If anything feels off, or if your child complains about their teeth bring them to the dentist.

“Even simple habits like brushing after candy and drinking more water make a big difference,” adds Dr. Tart. “It’s all about moderation so they can enjoy the fun while protecting their teeth for the long run.”

At Midlothian Dental Center, we’re proud to be locally owned, dentist-led, and community-loved, providing compassionate, expert care for families throughout Richmond, Midlothian and Bon Air.

Ready to Keep Your Child’s Smile Healthy?

Dr. Dani Tart and the team at Midlothian Dental Center – Bon Air love helping kids build healthy habits that last long after Halloween.
Whether it’s your child’s first visit or a post-Halloween checkup, we make every appointment comfortable, friendly, and fun.

📍 Bon Air Location - 9015 Forest Hill Ave, Bon Air, VA 23235
📞 Call (804) 272-6800
Schedule an Appointment with Dr. Dani Tart

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