Vegetarianism and Dental Health

A vegetarian diet can experience deficiencies in calcium, vitamin D, riboflavin, vitamin B12, or complete proteins. An adult on a vegetarian diet for a prolonged period of time can be at an increased risk for periodontal (gum) disease from a lack of vitamin D and calcium. Teeth may soften when there's a shortage of vitamin D, becoming more susceptible to decay. Deficiency in vitamin D is rare, however, since it is produced in the body with sun exposure, but it can develop in those who do not consume milk or fish.