By Dr. John Luther

Halloween is arriving soon. It's a fun-filled holiday that children really enjoy, especially after going around their neighborhood trick-or-treating, then arriving home to cherish their large assortment of candy.

But dental practitioners aren’t nearly as enamored with Halloween, because they know the possible ramifications of eating candy. It not only can create damage to the teeth and gums, but also possibly to a child's overall health.

Having healthy teeth and gums has an impact that goes far beyond the mouth. Poor oral hygiene can lead to cavities, periodontal disease and infection, which can impact a patient's heart, lungs, and entire body.

5 tips from Western Dental

1. Choose candy carefully: Try to avoid hard candy, such as lollipops, and other sweets that stay in the mouth for a long time. These candies increase the risk for tooth decay.