How fad diets may jeopardize your oral well-being: The hidden consequences

Background

In recent years, there has been growing interest in various food trends, including plant-based diets, the Mediterranean diet, the Flexitarian diet, the Paleo diet, Intermittent fasting, DASH (Dietary Approches to Stop Hypertension) diet and Vegan diet. Plant-based diets, which emphasize whole, plant-based foods while limiting or eliminating animal products, have been associated with a range of health benefits. Consumption of certain food trends can have an impact on oral health. However, there is a dearth of literature about the impact of these dietary trends on oral health. Hence, we reviewed the existing literature of these fad diets understanding its components as well as its impact on the oral health.

Methods

A systematic literature search was carried out on Pubmed, Google Scholar, Scopus and Web of Science for articles regarding the various types of in trend dietary patterns as well as the effect of these diets on oral health. A total of 241 articles were found after searching the databases for different types of diet and its oral implications. PubMed retrieved 156 titles, 38 articles were shortlisted from Google Scholar, 38 titles were obtained from Scopus and Web of Science yielded 9 titles. Titles and abstracts of the articles were evaluated and 79 articles were shortlisted for reviewing the full text. Out of these 63 articles were selected for inclusion for the review regarding the dietary patterns, general implications and oral health.

Results

It was found that while some of the dietary patterns are beneficial for the oral health of an individual there are others which can have some adverse effects.

Conclusion

Overall, eating whole, nutrient-dense foods while avoiding processed and acidic foods can improve oral and overall health.