If you are contemplating a new diet for weight loss, talk to your dentist in Milton-Freewater. Some diets that do wonders for the numbers on the scale aren’t so good for your teeth and gums, in fact, some can be downright dangerous.
Teeth and gums are affected by everything you eat and if you are not getting the nutrition you need they will suffer for it. Below is a list of diets that the team from 4 Seasons Dental recommends you stay away from.
Diet Pills
Diet pills work, however, they slow down saliva flow. If you do not have enough saliva, you will be left with food debris and bacteria. Bacteria and acid convert to plaque, plaque causes cavities and gum disease. Dry mouth is notorious for bad breath as well. If you must take diet pills, talk to your doctor about it.
Diets Low in Calories
If you are not consuming enough calories, you will be malnourished. Malnutrition happens when you are not getting the proper nutrients you need. Low calorie diets cause weak bones and teeth. If your jawbone is weak, you could lose a tooth. Malnutrition can also cause problems for mental and physical health.
Low Fat Diets Bad for Teeth and Gums
4 Seasons Dental explains that vitamins A, D, E and K are necessary for strong bones AND teeth. If you are not getting vitamin D, your body will not be able to absorb the calcium it needs. Your brain will not be getting the boost it needs either. When you eat healthy fats, your body produces dopamine, which is a natural mood booster.
Keto Diets and Low Carb Diets
Diets that are low in carbs, like the popular Keto diet, make your breath smell like fingernail polish remover, or worse yet, old rotting fruit. Because your body burns fat, called ketosis, it comes out through your skin, lungs, and eventually your breath. Add some healthy fat to your diet and eat lots of fresh parsley and mint.
Fruit Diets for Teeth and Gums
Fruit only diets are disastrous for teeth as they eat away at the enamel. Citrus is especially dangerous for teeth. If you are about to go on an all Grapefruit diet, rethink your decision as it is one of the worst and is right up there with oranges, limes, lemons and Kiwi Fruit. Too many tomatoes can also cause issues.
Talk to Your Dentist
If you would like to learn more about healthy foods for teeth and gums, call and schedule a dental visit with 4 Seasons Dental. Your mouth will thank you for it, and so will your waistline. Make an appointment today.
