Your body needs calcium to support healthy teeth and gums. Dairy and fish are excellent sources of calcium. However, this is not an option for vegans. Vegans need to supplement their diet with plenty of plant-based sources containing calcium. These sources include bok choy, tofu, soy beans, calcium-fortified nut milks, kale, broccoli, and almonds.
2. Vitamin D Deficiency
Vitamin D is needed to absorb calcium and the best sources of vitamin D come from the sun, eggs, fatty fish (like salmon) and fortified milk. To make sure you get enough vitamin D, it is most important to spend time outdoors in the sun. You can also supplement vitamin D or get a little bit of vitamin D from plant-based food like mushrooms.
3. Lack of Amino Acids
A vegan diet may lead to a lack of important amino acids, such as arginine, which is found in meat, poultry, dairy, and fish. Amino acids like arginine help prevent cavities and gum disease by breaking down dental plaque. While amino acids are found in larger quantities in meat, other sources, such as soy products, chickpeas, lentils, and pumpkin seeds, are good plant-based alternatives.
Vegans are more prone to snacking between meals to meet their body's daily nutritional requirements. Frequently putting your teeth in contact with food will put you at higher risk of plaque and cavities. Thus, it is essential to limit snacking and maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly, and visiting the dentist every six months for check-ups.
Vegans have an increased risk of dental erosion due to a high intake of acidic food and food high in natural sugar (like fruits). In addition, relying on starch-heavy food (like pasta) as a substitute for meat can lead to cavities, since starchy food get broken down in the mouth into sugar. It's best to limit the consumption of these foods and drink plenty of water to maintain a healthy saliva flow and a healthy pH in the mouth.
Aside from your diet, there are so many other factors that contribute to dental health, such as genetics, dental hygiene, lifestyle, personal health, and the levels of fluoride in the water. Here are some steps you can take to ensure that your dental health does not suffer as a result of a vegan diet.
If you are considering a vegan diet or already live a vegan lifestyle, and you are concerned about your dental health, schedule an appointment to speak with your dentist. They can offer you appropriate advice and guidance to keep your teeth healthy and happy.