Dentists suggest Halloween candy tactics

CHICAGO, Oct. 15 (UPI) -- A survey of dentists in the Chicago area indicates 80 percent admit sneaking candy from their children's Halloween bags.

Ten percent admit they ate the candy they bought to give out -- necessitating a last-minute run to the store. The survey of 37 dentists, conducted by the Chicago Dental Society, reveals the dentists were more concerned about the candy's effect on the waistline than on teeth.

"Realistically, for patients with otherwise good habits, a one-time celebratory pig-out isn't going to destroy their teeth," concedes Skokie, Ill., dentist Susan Becker Doroshow.

Most dentists surveyed say completely denying yourself any fun on Halloween is a sure path to misery.

"It's only one day a year, so don't get too hung up on too many sweets," advises dentist Marv Schumer of Wilmette, Ill.

However, the dentists had several ideas on how to keep from overindulging. The top suggestion among all the dentists was "buying candy you don't like." Other ideas included:

-- Hiding candy because "out of sight, out of mind." Hiding places included the car trunk, the freezer or under lock and key.

-- Substitute another kind of goodies for candy. Treat yourself in other ways.

-- Give out non-edible items -- like crayons, stickers, glow sticks or gift certificates.

Most dentists report Halloween candy leftovers -- 29 percent say they take leftover candy to work, 20 percent give it away, 11 percent throw it out and 40 percent just "eat it."