How To Protect Your Teeth From Halloween Candy - KAUZ-TV: Newschannel 6 Now | Wichita Falls, TX

While all candy has sugar in it that can cause cavities, there are certain types that can be worse for your teeth.

"There's definitely certain candies that people should steer away from," said Dr. Elbert Kwak from Spearmint Dental. "For example, sticky candies, stuff that are more likely to stay in the grooves of the teeth or in between the teeth, is more likely to cause cavities."

Dr. Kwak said it is not the sugar itself that causes cavities, but the way the bacteria in your mouth breaks down the sugar.  Therefore, the longer you leave the sugar in your mouth, the more it will take its toll on your teeth.

"If you're constantly eating a piece every couple of minutes for a whole day, that's worse than having a bunch with your lunch or with dinner," said Dr. Kwak.

He suggests rinsing your mouth out with water right after eating candy, and waiting about a half hour before brushing your teeth. Dr. Kwak also said eating sugar free candy is the best option, if you don't mind the taste.

"It's not everyone's favorite, a lot of people don't like the flavor, and some people don't like using artificial sweeteners, so I can understand that," said Dr. Kwak. "It is the way to go, but some people just don't care for it."

He said chewing sugar free gum is a helpful way to clean out your mouth after eating candy as well.