Post Op Diet and Dental Care - ThinnerTimes - Gastric Bypass Forum, Lap Band Forum, and Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy Forum

katlover66 · 06-14-2004, 06:21 PM

OK I just got back from the dentist and he told me that because I now eat a lot of protein that I have developed a lot of plaque. He said that protein builds plaque very quickly and this could cause problems down the line. He has suggested me adding another brushing to my day and anytime I eat fruit to rinse my mouth out with water.
I just thought this was great advice and wanted to pass it on.

newthindale · 06-14-2004, 11:28 PM

Katy,

I never heard that one. I have very little plague, according to my dentist. Sugar forms plague, I thought. Very strange. I'm sure a rinse and more brushing couldn't hurt. Is s/he sure?

Dale 6/19/02

lealphachienne · 06-15-2004, 08:00 AM

I just went to my dentist yesterday also. My dentist didn't recommend anything different. Just the usual brush and floss twice a day. After cruising the net, it's a bit foggy. A few articles mentioned that a diet high in animal protein may lead to increased dental problems. However, using milk, soy, or whey protein may help lower dental problems. The more likely story is that since it's hard to get enough fluids in, our mouths are drier than usual. Most of the reading indicates that anything that causes additional salivation assissts in keeping bacteria from clinging onto the enamel. Frequesnt rinsing with water helps too. Too much brushing can cause further troubles and can actually remove some of the protective enamel.

Ain't the net grand

marie

katlover66 · 06-15-2004, 08:51 PM

He was sure about the protein. He said to make sure I rinse my mouth out and add the extra brushing. I have always had good teeth and low plaque. I always see him every 6 months. Last time it was 2 weeks after surgery. He said high protein diets promote more plaque adheasion and that is why rinsing and brushing more often is recommended. I know at my age I don't want to get any dental problems I have been very lucky thus far.

Tracie · 06-15-2004, 11:45 PM

I was under the impression that bacteria and it's byproducts make up plaque. Bacteria feeds on sugars and other carbohydrates. If plaque sits on your teeth it creates an acid as it breaks down, thereby increasing your chances of decay or periodontal disease. Cheddar cheese or sugarless gum can help neutralize this effect...there is something in the cheese and salivary flow is stimulated with the gum which helps cleanse the mouth. Rinsing is a good idea, but it doesn't rinse off anything that is adhered to the tooth. Crunchy things such as apples and carrots help physically remove it. Flossing is the only way to get interproximally. It needs to be broken up every 12-24 hours so as not to cause a problem. Brush gently with the brush angled into the gums at a 45 degree angle and don't do long strokes or use a lot of pressure or you can recede the tissue and wear into the tooth structure.