The ketogenic diet, commonly known as the keto diet, was one of the most popular New Year’s resolutions of 2023. Keto is a high-fat, moderate-protein and very low-carbohydrate dietary plan. When cutting carbs, the body enters a state of ketosis, in which it begins to break down fats at a much faster rate than it breaks down carbohydrates. This process produces compounds known as ketones. The body burns ketones for energy rather than glucose.
Keto & Dental Health
Going keto has many health benefits for those suffering from diabetes, epilepsy, and other conditions, but how does it affect your mouth? While some oral side effects may occur when you first cut back on carbohydrates, for most people, going keto will improve their oral health.
Keto improves weight loss more quickly than other diets. It also leads to healthier teeth and gums. The reason is the lower sugar content. Keto offers potential health benefits for everything from diabetes management to neurological disorders like Alzheimer’s disease. But does this diet really have anything to offer your oral health?
The key to understanding how going keto affects oral health is knowing what exactly makes up your food choices on this plan. To get into ketosis you need:
- A very low amount of carbohydrates (less than 50 grams).
- High fat intake (between 60-75%).
- Moderate protein intake (5-10%).
Tooth Decay
Known medically as dental caries or cavities, tooth decay is a common problem for many people. This condition is caused by bacteria in your mouth that digest sugar and produce acids that eat away at the enamel on your teeth. The good news is that tooth decay can be prevented by brushing your teeth regularly and drinking water throughout the day. If your teeth show signs of decay, see a dentist immediately to find out about possible treatment options.
Many commercial foods are loaded with refined carbs — white bread, cookies, crackers, and candies — that quickly break down into sugars during digestion. The bacteria in our mouths love sugar and thrive on a constant supply of it. These bacteria produce acids when they eat sugar that cause enamel erosion and tooth decay. While cutting back on sugary foods offers great long-term benefits for teeth and gums, many people experience dry mouth or increased tooth sensitivity because they aren’t drinking enough water. Both can increase risk of tooth decay, so make sure you’re staying hydrated if you’re doing the keto diet!
Going keto can be great for your oral health if you make sure to drink plenty of water and brush twice a day. If you have any questions about keto or how it can affect your oral health, please consult with your dentist.
About Dr. Fred Wong of Blue Ocean Dentistry in Glendora, California
Dr. Fred Wong and the staff at Blue Ocean Dentistry use the latest available dental treatments,equipment, and materials – all of which make a marked difference in our patients’ experiences. We help our patients achieve optimal dental health. We creatively combine dental science and artistry — which can literally redesign your smile. Since even a subtle change in your smile will help you to project self-confidence and high self-esteem, we love helping you feel good about yourself. We deliver the finest dental care at the most reasonable cost and accept most dental insurance plans as well as CareCredit. For more about the dental treatment plans we offer or to schedule an appointment, call today (626) 852-6999.