As the old adage goes, it has been long said that April showers bring May flowers. However, what many people may not realize is that those vibrant blooms can also play a role in promoting a healthier mouth. It is a well-established fact that plant-based diets have been steadily increasing in popularity over the past few years, and this surge in interest is certainly not without reason.
The benefits of such diets extend beyond just general well-being, as they have been shown to significantly contribute to positive dental health outcomes as well. Let us delve deeper into the ways in which adopting a plant-based diet can pave the way to a mouth that is in optimal health.
What is a Plant-Based Diet?
Plant-based diets are defined as a dietary pattern that places emphasis on the consumption of predominantly plant-based foods, including but not limited to fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. This diet typically involves excluding or restricting the intake of animal products such as meat, dairy, and eggs. The adoption of a plant-based diet has been associated with a myriad of health advantages, ranging from weight management and enhanced cardiovascular health to a decreased likelihood of developing chronic illnesses.
How Does a Plant-Based Diet Affect Dental Health?
It is a known fact that a plant-based diet can positively impact oral health. One reason is that plant-based foods are typically low in sugar and high in fiber, which can help prevent tooth decay. Additionally, many plant-based foods are rich in vitamins and minerals essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
Vitamin C
Fruits and vegetables are excellent vitamin C sources, essential for maintaining healthy gums. Vitamin C strengthens the connective tissues in the gums, making them less susceptible to infection and disease. Citrus fruits, strawberries, and leafy greens are all great sources of vitamin C.
Calcium
Maintaining robust teeth and bones requires calcium. Dairy products are frequently viewed as the primary calcium source; there are plenty of plant-based options as well. Dark leafy greens, almonds, and tofu are all excellent sources of calcium.
Antioxidants
Antioxidants are also abundant in plant-based foods which can assist in the protection against gum disease and other oral health issues. Antioxidants help to neutralize harmful bacteria in the mouth, reducing the risk of inflammation and infection.
Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Mouth on a Plant-Based Diet
While a plant-based diet can benefit your dental health, it’s essential to ensure you’re still practicing good oral hygiene habits. Here are a few tips to help you maintain a healthy mouth on a plant-based diet:
- Use fluoride toothpaste and brush two times a day.
- Daily, remove plaque and food bits stuck between your teeth by flossing.
- Regulate consumption of acidic and sugary food and beverages.
- Drink plenty of water to help rinse away food particles and keep your mouth hydrated.
- Regularly attend your dental cleanings and check-ups.
A plant-based diet can benefit your overall health, including your dental health. Incorporating more whole-food and plant-based foods into your diet can help prevent oral health issues. Just remember to continue practicing good oral hygiene habits and visit your dentist regularly for optimal dental health. Happy eating!
Simrit has been working at Torbram Dental since 2001. She started her career with Assisting/Treatment co-ordinating and then moved on to becoming the Hygiene Co Ordinator in 2005. In 2012 she took on a new role as the Marketing Director. Though she loved being the Marketing Director, in 2015 she became the Office Manager of Torbram Dental. She completed her Level 1 Dental Assisting program with Career Canada in 1996 and then went on to complete her Level II Dental Assisting Diploma with Southwestern Medix in 1999. That is when she received NDAEB Certification. Simrit has been and still is an active member of the Ontario Dental Assistants Association since 2000. She enjoys hiking and traveling with her husband and two kids and loves to explore new restaurants, especially high-tea venues.
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Jessica, one of our receptionists, is one of the smiling faces you see when you arrive at the office. She graduated with honours from Medix College with a diploma as a Level 2 Dental Assistant. When she is not happily helping our patients, Jessica enjoys spending quality time with her friends and family, going to church on Sunday mornings, gardening and going on hikes.
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Naudia has been working at Torbram Dental for many years and is a valued member of our administrative team: as a dental receptionist and in our marketing team . She graduated from Everest College with honours level 1 and 2, with a diploma in Dental Assisting. Naudia is always there for our patients, making sure that they receive the care and attention they deserve. When not at the office, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, cooking and indulging in civil court TV shows.
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Ramandeep has been a part of Torbram Dental for the past 10 years as certified dental assistant. She obtained her level 1 certification from Everest college in Brampton in 2013, and then her level 2 certification in 2014 from Medix college. Her career path through the clinic has been recognized by staff at all levels who admire her work ethic and dedication to million dollar smiles. In her spare time, Ramandeep enjoys cooking and gardening, and spending time with her husband and 2 kids.
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Sana is a valued member of our dental hygiene team. In 2008 she completed her education at George Brown in Dental Assisting and in 2016 she earned her diploma in Dental Hygiene from the Canadian Academy of Dental Health and Sciences. Sana has been working in dentistry since 2008 and enjoys taking care of our patients and helping them with their oral health. She is married and is busy with her 2 young children. In her spare time, Sana enjoys going out with the family, trying out new places to eat and is looking forward to travelling with them in the future.
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Sanaria has been working at Torbram Dental for many years as a valued member of our Dental Assisting Team. She completed her level 2 dental assisting certification and previously obtained a degree in Education and worked as a quality control officer in the pharmaceutical industry. When not at work Sanaria loves to bake and cook. She also loves story time and enjoying the outdoors with her children. She always sees the positive side of life, believes that nothing is impossible and that if you set a goal and work at it, that you will make your dreams come true.
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Carrie has been working at Torbram Dental since 2001. She graduated from George Brown College in 1998 with a Dental Assistant Diploma and continued to further her education by completing a Dental Hygiene Diploma in 2001 at Durham College. Carrie is a highly trained and experienced Registered Dental Hygienist who continues to learn and grow by updating her knowledge to provide her clients with the best Oral Health Care techniques and information. Carrie is passionate about Dentistry and is known for her gentle and compassionate manner. She feels strongly about building lasting relationships and trust with her clients to help them understand that good Oral Health leads to good Overall Health. Carrie enjoys travelling, dabbling in decorating and a good Netflix series in her time off. Carrie resides in Halton Hills with her husband and two children.
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Daniela's interest in Dentistry began in Gr.6 when she wrote a speech entitled "My Life as a Toothbrush".
A Registered Dental Hygienist with 22 years of clinical experience, Daniela still has a great passion for her career. The most rewarding aspect for her is building lasting relationships with her patients, and seeing them through to a healthier smile.
Her thorough yet gentle touch will ensure a comfortable visit every time.
Daniela is a total Foodie and loves to cook and enjoys all types of cuisines. She loves Florida, Cruises, organizing things, and most of all spending time with family and friends.
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Stephanie Enjoys getting to know all new patients at Torbram Dental and catching up with long standing Patients. Stephanie enjoys spending quality time with her family. One of her favorite things to do with her daughter is teach and play the piano. Stephanie likes going on walks with her husband and enjoys spending as much time with him as he is an Active Member of the Canadian Army. On Sundays, Stephanie enjoys going to Church and looks forward to Sunday Dinner with her entire family. Stephanie's Favorite thing to do to start her day right is head to her local Starbucks and Grab her favorite drink, an iced black tea with light lemonade on warm days and a blonde vanilla latte on those cold winter days.
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As a dedicated Dental Hygienist at Torbram Dental, Aalisha brings recent knowledge and experience to ensure the best oral health for our patients. She holds a Diploma in Dental Hygiene from the Toronto College of Dental Hygiene and Auxiliaries and has further enriched her education with a Bachelor of Science from the University of Waterloo. Beyond her professional qualifications, Aalisha has a zest for life that extends beyond the dental chair. She cherishes quality time with family and friends, thrives on outdoor adventures, and has a passion for hiking and water-based activities, especially during the sunny summer days. She is an avid traveler, exploring tropical paradises and historic destinations while immersing herself in diverse cultures and indulging in delicious culinary experiences."
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Supreet was born and raised in Punjab, India and came to Canada in 2016. She graduated from Sheridan College as an Environmental Lab Technician but later decided to change her career to dentistry. She completed her Level I and II Intra-Oral Dental Assisting course from George Brown College and graduated in 2023. In July 2023, Supreet joined the team at Torbram Dental where she enjoys working. In her free time, she loves to read books.
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