Are you interested in adopting a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle? Maybe you already have and are interested in learning how the switch will impact your smile. Like any dietary change, there are pros and cons that need to be considered, especially since what you eat impacts the condition of your teeth and gums. With this in mind, keep reading to learn how a plant-based diet affects your oral health.
The “Pros” of a Vegan/Vegetarian Diet for Oral Health
While most Americans struggle to get an adequate amount of fruits and vegetables into their diet, that’s certainly not the case for vegans and vegetarians! Broccoli, celery, carrots, and other vitamin-rich veggies help keep your teeth healthy from the inside-out. Plus, their low-sugar content will reduce your risk of developing tooth decay. Of course, fruit does have sugar, but the nutritional value (and delicious taste!) makes it a great addition to your meals.
Plant-based diets are often also filled with healthy fats (like avocados and nut butter), as well as rice, quinoa, and other filling carbs. So, if you plan out your meals properly, you can create satiating and delicious breakfasts, lunches, and dinners that will prevent you from snacking, which is a habit that can increase your risk of developing cavities.
The “Cons” of a Vegan/Vegetarian Diet for Oral Health
While vegan and vegetarian diets come with numerous pros, there are a few things you should be mindful of, including:
- “Too much” snacking – As previously mentioned, frequent snacking is a habit that can result in tooth decay, especially since many patients only brush twice a day. If you are intentional about your meals while adopting a plant-based diet, you might consistently find yourself reaching for nuts, chips, and other snacks between meals. The best way to prevent this from happening is by experimenting with different recipes to find ones that keep you full!
- Lots of sticky fruits – Like gummy candy, sticky fruits can cling to your teeth for hours on end. To reduce your risk of cavities, try sipping on water simultaneously and chewing on sugar-free gum afterward. After about 30 minutes, you can use a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste with fluoride to brush your teeth.
- Lack of re-mineralizing foods – The re-mineralization process is essential when it comes to preventing tooth decay. Unfortunately, many foods that help (i.e., meat and seafood), don’t fit into a plant-based diet. Don’t worry – leafy greens and sea vegetables can help with remineralization!
The good news is that your dentist is your greatest ally when it comes to your oral health. So, if you’ve adopted a plant-based diet or you’re considering making the switch, they can provide recommendations and helpful pointers to ensure your smile stays happy and healthy in the process!
About the Practice
One of our primary focuses at Pinnacle Dental is helping patients keep their smiles in tip-top shape. That’s why we offer meticulous preventive care and focus on patient education. If you want to learn more about how your diet affects your oral health or it has been more than six months since your last checkup, don’t hesitate to visit our website or call (781) 412-1412.