Because your oral health directly affects your body’s overall health, it’s important for you to properly care for your teeth and gums. Just like you take vitamins and minerals to promote your body and its’ immune system, they can also help strengthen your teeth. If you have a hard time remembering to take your vitamins in pill form, there are other ways to integrate beneficial vitamins and minerals into your life.
Consider adding these supplements below to your daily routine to reap the most benefits for your teeth and gums.
Calcium
Calcium is the number one mineral aimed at strengthening and growing your bones. Since your teeth are included in the bone family, calcium certainly helps your oral health in many different ways. Calcium is actually the most sufficient mineral found in your body, with almost 99% of it living in your teeth and bones. The best benefit of calcium in the body is that it keeps your teeth and jawbones strong and functioning properly. Aside from this, calcium significantly helps strengthen your tooth’s protective layer called tooth enamel, which is key to a long and happy life with your teeth.
Where to find Calcium: Calcium is naturally located in several different foods including almost all dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt. Most leafy green vegetables like broccoli, kale, and spinach have almost 20% of your daily dose of Calcium as do most nuts and beans.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C supports the growth, development, and replacement of all body tissues, including your gums and other soft tissue in your mouth. Vitamin C, in combination with Calcium, is also necessary for the upkeep of your cartilage, bones, and teeth. This vitamin will also help protect against the notorious gum disease, gingivitis and can keep your teeth from becoming loose in your gums.
Where to find Vitamin C: Leafy green vegetables like broccoli, spinach, and cabbage have the highest sources of vitamin C. Citrus fruits like lemons, oranges, and grapefruits also have super high-concentrations of vitamin C, as well as carbohydrates like sweet potatoes.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is a key vitamin recommended for maintaining great oral health. This helps your body absorb, transport, and store calcium in your bones and promotes density. Vitamin D also supports healthy teeth by preventing your mouth from going through calcium deficiency.
Where to find Vitamin D: You can find vitamin D in foods like tuna, ocean fish, mushrooms, milk, and many varieties of cereals. If you’re looking to soak up some vitamin D without eating, try going outside on a sunny day! Your body naturally creates vitamin D when it’s exposed to sunlight. Just, don’t forget your sunscreen.
Your Teeth Can Benefit from Vitamins and Minerals
Vitamins and minerals are important factors when it comes to your overall health. Not only are vitamins and minerals key to helping your body function properly, but they’re also essential to your teeth, gums, and enamel. Doing your part to keep your teeth and gums healthy is crucial, but don’t forget to visit your dentist regularly for tips and tricks on adding vitamins and minerals into your daily routine.
To help make the best decisions on what supplements will work best for you, visit our professional and pleasant office here at Mountain View Dental. If you have questions or want to schedule an appointment, give us a call today at 385-324-3557.
