It’s a new year and a new you, right? If you’re like many other Americans, you might have resolved to eat better or lose weight. So, that means you may have started down the road of eating keto, the high-fat, low-carb diet. You may have seen some changes in your waistline – which was the goal – but you may have seen some unwanted changes, too. One of those changes is keto breath.

What Is Keto Breath?

Keto breath develops in many individuals who live by the low-carb, high-fat mantra. Keto breath has been described as fruity or even more pungent – similar to nail polish remover. While it usually fades after the first few weeks of following the diet, it may be problematic for you.

Note: If your breath has changed with your new diet and it isn’t going away after a few weeks, it’s time to schedule an appointment with Legends Dental to make sure something else isn’t going on.

Why Does Keto Breath Develop?

The goal of the diet is to lose weight by putting the body in its natural metabolic state, also known as ketosis. When the body reaches ketosis, you start burning fat for fuel and energy instead of carbs.

The change in breath comes into play from ketones, which develop from fatty acids. Some of these ketones include hydroxybutyrate, acetoacetate and acetone, hence the nail polish smell.

Are There Other Oral Health Implications From Keto?

While keto breath is a minor inconvenience, eating low carb could have some significant benefits for your oral health. One of those benefits is that, by limiting carbs, you help to prevent plaque buildup. This is because carbs feed the bacteria in the mouth that cause tooth decay. This is also the case with sugar. While on keto, you’re not allowed to consume sugar, so you may see fewer chances of developing cavities.

But, eating low-carb alone won’t help protect your oral health. You’ve also got to brush at least twice per day and floss at least once per day, too. We also want to see you in our office at least twice a year to make sure your teeth, gums and mouth are healthy.

Are you considering going keto, or have you been living the keto lifestyle for a while now? If you’re experiencing keto breath or you’re struggling with bad breath that won’t go away, give us a call at 254-799-9540 to schedule a checkup.