A Dentist in Providence RI, tends to worry a little about patients who are vegans, meaning they do not eat food originating from animals or use products made from animals. They also may refrain from using any products manufactured by companies that conduct animal testing, preferring to support cruelty-free manufacturers. Some causes for concern include a diet that may not contain enough vitamin D and calcium, a diet that contains a great deal of fruit, and an avoidance of toothpaste produced by large manufacturers.
Vitamin D and Calcium
These nutrients are essential for strong teeth, but vegans are at risk of not getting enough. Fish and dairy products contain much of a typical diet’s calcium, but people who don’t want to eat these foods need to consume plenty of dark green vegetables, legumes, and certain types of nuts. They also may be able to find calcium-fortified juices and soy beverages from companies considered cruelty-free.
Non-vegan individuals tend to get much of their vitamin D from fortified dairy products since most people don’t get enough sunshine exposure to generate sufficient vitamin D naturally. Supplements may be required for vegans who cannot otherwise consume enough of this nutrient.
Fruit
Eating a lot of fruit is a healthy way to obtain vitamins and minerals, but snacking on it throughout the day is hard on tooth enamel. That’s because fruit is high in fructose sugar, and most fruit contains acids. The best strategy is to rinse the mouth with water after eating fruit to clear some of the acid and sugar away or to only eat fruit with meals. The other foods reduce the effects of sugar and acid on the teeth.
A dentist at a clinic such as Atwill-Conroy Dental Associates also may recommend chewing sugarless gum after consuming fruit, especially gum with xylitol. Xylitol helps to rebuild tooth enamel that has begun to erode due to contact with acidic and sugary substances.
Toothpaste
A dentist in Proidence RI, recommends that patients use fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent cavities. It’s even better than xylitol at rebuilding enamel. Most of these products are made by large commercial manufacturers, but it’s possible to find them from cruelty-free suppliers.
