Do you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet? From the increased intake of fruits and vegetables to the positive impact on the environment, there is a seemingly endless list of pros to this lifestyle. As with any change to your eating habits, however, it is important to take note of how your diet affects your oral health. Keep reading to learn a few things to look out for so you can maintain your plant-based commitment and your healthy teeth!
Plant-Based & Oral Health: The Positives
A vegetarian or vegan diet doesn’t just benefit your overall well-being, it benefits your oral health in some ways too! Patients who adopt these diets often fill their meals with nutrient-dense fruits and vegetables, which provide your body with the essential vitamins it needs to stay healthy from the inside-out. Plus, the crunchy texture of raw bell peppers, broccoli, and apples stimulates your jawbone while acting as nature’s toothbrush, removing plaque and debris from your teeth in the process.
Plant-Based & Oral Health: A Few Things to Look Out for
Naturally, changes to your lifestyle, like cutting out meat, will cause a domino effect. The good news is that being aware on the front end can help you maintain a proactive approach. Here are some tips to start:
- Incorporate healthy fats to prevent excessive snacking – Chicken, fish, and steak all are filling and higher in calories. For this reason, cutting them out intentionally is of the utmost importance. Make sure to fill your meals with healthy fats, like avocados and nut butter, to keep you full between meals.
- Be mindful of essential vitamins – Calcium is an essential mineral that is found in dairy products, like milk. If you choose to opt for an alternative instead, like oat milk, do your best to incorporate leafy greens, soybeans, and even calcium supplements.
- Talk to your dentist – Many patients forget that their dentist isn’t just there for routine checkups and cleanings. They are there to help you maintain healthy, happy teeth for life! If you have a question about preserving your oral health following a change to a plant-based diet, don’t hesitate to ask.
5 Additional Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Smile
Being mindful of your diet is an important component of keeping your teeth and gums in pristine condition. If you aren’t already, you should also:
- Brush your teeth twice a day (for a full two minutes each time)
- Floss and rinse with mouthwash daily
- Get a dental checkup and cleaning every six months
- Quit unhealthy habits, like smoking and using your teeth as tools to open things
- Limit your intake of sugary foods and beverages
Choosing to commit to a plant-based lifestyle comes with numerous benefits. Just make sure to keep the above information in mind to keep your teeth and gums healthy and happy in the process!
About the Practice
Our team at Mind Your Mouth takes a total-body approach to dentistry. Whether you’re interested in sleep apnea therapy, yoga and meditation programs, or prioritizing your health through quality dentistry, we are here to help. In fact, we even offer nutritional counseling to ensure you get the vitamins and nutrients you need to support your oral and overall health. If you have a question about your daily diet’s impact on your teeth or you want to schedule an appointment, don’t hesitate to visit our website or call (207) 200-4106.