Expert warns you're been eating advent calendar chocolate wrong and it's ruining your teeth

A dentist has issued a health warning to anyone who has an advent calendar this month. Christmas is one of the best times of the year to be a chocoholic, with festive treats galore and even a little piece of chocolate everyday to count down the celebrations.

Most people are aware that chocolate is not great for oral health. But, can a tiny piece a day really make a difference?

According to experts, there's one way to eat your advent calendar that should be avoided at all costs. The health specialist, Barty Walsh, a dental expert from Ordo, says eating advent calendar chocolates before brushing your tooth is a bad idea.

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He has also shared the best time of day to eat your advent calendar choccy. There's even one type of chocolate he says could actually be good for your brain and teeth.

Can I really have chocolate for breakfast?

Barty Walsh says: "Yes! In fact, it’s the best way. Chocolate provides a mental and physical boost in the morning due to its caffeine and sugar content and chocolate actually contains more antioxidants than green tea.

"However, you need to wait at least half an hour before brushing your teeth after eating anything containing acid or sugar to maintain strong enamel. So technically yes, you can wake up and eat your chocolate first, then brush your teeth for the day ahead."

Is dark chocolate actually better for you?

The expert added: "Dark chocolate is known to have many benefits and preventing tooth decay is one of them. It also helps to fight the bacteria that cause the sugars to turn into acid, and contains strong antibacterial agents.

"The darker the better when it comes to choosing a dark chocolate, and it even helps prevent bad breath so it’s an all-round favourite treat for dentists."

How bad is chocolate for my teeth?

There’s absolutely nothing wrong with adults enjoying advent calendars too, but of course the tradition is mainly for children and families. According to the NHS, children aged 4 to 6 years old are allowed a maximum recommended daily sugar intake of 5 sugar cubes or 19g and 24g for 7 to 10 year olds.

A typical piece of advent calendar chocolate contains 2.1g so parents should just be aware of the added sugar intake and stick to the recommended brushing times for healthy teeth, Barty Walsh warns.

Is plain chocolate better for your teeth?

While it might be tempting to opt for the most exciting and extravagant advent calendars, keeping it simple with plain chocolates is a lot better for your teeth, Barty Walsh added. "Additional flavours such as coffee or caramel is not the best idea, especially if you’re worried about the effects on your teeth," he said.

How can I eat chocolate without hurting my teeth?

To enjoy a guilt-free advent calendar, remember to brush your teeth and floss regularly. Barty Walsh explained: "Choose dark chocolate and look for ingredients that are good for your teeth such as nuts or mint.

"Don’t forget to drink plenty of water to rinse the mouth out. Following these simple routine steps means you can indulge in the Christmas tradition, and keep your teeth healthy too."