What Dieting Trends Can Harm My Oral Health?

December 13, 2023

Filed under: Uncategorized — Nancy Henrichsen @ 10:27 pm
Lady thinks something over

America has seen many dieting trends come and go during the decades, and many of them are not as successful as others. Some of them require significant dietary restrictions that can make it difficult for a patient to get all the nutrients they need for excellent oral health. Dieting trends can have negative side effects such as bad breath or making the dieter more vulnerable to infections. Here are a few popular dieting trends along with the risks they can pose to your dental health.

The Ketogenic Diet Can Make Your Breath Smell Like Nail Polish Remover

The ketogenic diet, or keto diet, is based on a fairly simple logic: If the body is not getting a lot of carbs from food, it will have to burn its fat reserves fuel, leading to weight loss and a leaner figure. The keto diet permits plenty of protein and fat but not many carbohydrates, meaning that the dieter can eat as many Philly cheesesteaks as they like as long as they remove the bread.

While this might seem like a great way to slim down while still eating food you can taste, putting your body in a state of ketosis can have the unfortunate side effect of making your breath smell like nail polish remover. While this isn’t the worst fragrance your breath can have, it can be a pesky issue for many people when socializing.

Cutting Out Meat Can Leave Your Natural Dental Defenses Incomplete

Many people practice vegetarianism or veganism for a variety of reasons. While these eating regimens can bring benefits such as weight loss and lowered risks of heart disease and some cancers, their practitioners risk not getting enough B12 and D3 vitamins as well as Omega-3 fats, heme iron, and collagen. Those who do not consume dairy can also have difficulty getting enough calcium and vitamins A, D, and K to keep their teeth strong. Vegetarians and vegans sometimes deal with higher levels of acid erosion than those with more conventional diets.

Eating a proper diet is a crucial part of maintaining your oral health. By being aware of what your body needs and how these diets work, you can make smart eating choices that will have you feeling great, looking fine, and smiling bright.

About the Practice

North Garland Family Dental delivers world-class dental care to the community of Garland, TX. Led by Drs. Yaritza Vazquez and Jordan McHone, the staff ensures that each patient receives personalized service and achieves remarkable results. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. For more information on eating properly for your dental health, contact the office online or dial (972) 530-7979.