The 10 Worst Candies for Your Teeth

It's no surprise that Halloween candy is bad for your teeth. But some sugary treats are more damaging than others.

Treats that are sticky and gooey are more likely to get trapped between your teeth (and stay there). The lingering sugar fuels bacteria and can promote plaque and cavities. Hard sucking candies are another group to watch because of long exposure. Eating a hard candy bathes the mouth in sugar and makes your teeth more vulnerable to cavities and plaque buildup. Hard candies can chip teeth and fillings; sharp edges can irritate the gums. The category is sour candies. These possess a double-edged sword because they are sticky and acidic. The acidity can breakdown tooth enamel and the sticky residue feeds bacteria to create further damage.

The worst Halloween candy for your teeth.

Here's a list of the worst offenders:

1. Butterfinger

2. Swedish Fish

3. Lollipops

4. Tootsie Roll

5. Sour Patch Kids

6. Laffy Taffy

7. Jolly Ranchers

8. Caramel Chews

9. Gummy Worms

10. Dried Fruits

If you're really craving a sweet treat during this season, opt for dark chocolate and fresh fruits which help to preserve your tooth enamel. However, if you are going to indulge, it's recommended to rinse with water after and wait for 30 minutes before brushing your teeth.