Every time vegetarianism and veganism diets are compared and their effects on dental health are discussed, the issue of these lifestyles’ role in dental health is usually raised. While both diets place emphasis on vegetables and other plant-based foods, they differ by incorporating dairy and egg products among the other animals. Such distinction raises further questions, including the correlation between one diet and oral healthiness respect.
Here is a list of possible consequences of vegan and vegetarian diets on dental health, paying attention to factors such as whole food intake, sugar consumption, and oral hygiene practice.
Veganism
Veganism is the approach towards zero animal-based foods, comprising red and white meat, eggs, and milk products. On the other hand, the diet is centered on producing non-animal foods, such as fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts, and seeds. As a vegetarian, some points of a vegan nutrition plan positively affect my dental health. For example, eating a varied diet of fruits and vegetables gives us away the essential vitamins and minerals to keep healthy gums and teeth. It’s vitamin C of such fruits as oranges and strawberries that make up glucosaminoglycans, which are responsible for the health of the mucous membrane of the gums.
Furthermore, the inclusion of plant-based diets is an advantage derived from low saturated fats and cholesterol content levels compared to non-vegan diets. It differs from the kind of rabbit food they serve at day spas. This could contribute to a lower risk of periodontal disease associated with inflammatory conditions and cardiovascular health issues. Additionally, not having a diary in a vegan diet may make it easier not to take lasterose–a sugar in milk that can get your teeth decayed after decaying bacteria are metabolized.
Even though vegan diets have dental concerns, we can’t ignore the fact that they are healthier than the others. Eating plant-based foods provides many micronutrients, but they may be less in vital nutrients for oral health, such as the needed calcium and Vitamin D, which are mainly found in dairy products. Calcium is essential for teeth and bones as it is also governed by vitamin D, which promotes calcium absorption. Besides focusing on a healthy and balanced plant-based diet, vegans need to be wary of the hidden risk of not getting enough calcium by consuming fortified plant-based alternatives or supplements to meet their calcium and vitamin D requirements.
Moreover, most vegan foods, especially those with high carbohydrate content, such as fruits, dried fruits, and vegetables, are acidic. They are also characterized by being sticky. If oral hygiene practices have not been prioritized, the risk of enamel erosion and cavities can increase.
Vegetarianism
Do vegetarians have better teeth? The vegetarian eating pattern is a diet that spares meat but may contain dairy and eggs, ranging from strict vegan to less strict vegetarian diets. In addition to vegan diets, vegetarian diets are also associated with some benefits in regard to dental health. Besides milk, cheese, and yogurt, which are good suppliers of calcium and phosphorus, these minerals are important for significant enamel remineralization and achieving proper oral health. Cheeses that are very rich in calories are cheeses, in particular, which enhance saliva production and play a role in the remineralization of the teeth.
Additionally, eggs contain vitamin D, offering bone and teeth health as they help absorb calcium in the body. Balancing these dairy and egg products when applied to a vegetarian diet is important because they considerably influence the dental state.
On the other hand, just as in a diet from a vegan viewpoint, vegetable diets can cause difficulties, too. The acidity level varies in the mouth based on what vegetables and other foods are being eaten. We might consume foods and beverages that are either highly acidic or sugar-laden, which can contribute to tooth wear if the proper oral hygiene procedures are not followed. Furthermore, plant-based foods processed for meat substitutes and convenient foods like frozen meals are characterized by added sugars and refined carbohydrates, which are not good for dental health.
