Think of vitamins and minerals as the first lines of dental defense. Too little means that bacteria can weaken the entire body, especially the teeth—leading not just to cavities and abscesses but also to gum disease, mouth sores, and other oral diseases.
Fortunately, because knowledge is power, the following insights can help protect you and your family from these cunning invaders of the mouth.
Which vitamins and minerals keep teeth strong and healthy?
No single vitamin or mineral will maintain your teeth—and an overreliance on one can even negatively impact your oral health. But you will find the nutritional diversity you need in a well-balanced diet in:
- Calcium strengthens enamel and stabilizes the teeth by reinforcing the jawline. Look for it in dairy products, canned salmon and sardines, or such vegetables as broccoli, kale, and mustard greens.
- Phosphorus absorbs calcium and protects enamel. It can be found in milk, whole grains, and fish, for instance.
- Potassium keeps bones lining the jaw strong and improves blood clotting—especially important if your gums occasionally bleed.
- Vitamin A promotes saliva production, which helps break down food and clears bacteria and food particles from the teeth.
- Vitamin B reduces oral inflammation, helping to prevent bad breath and canker sores in the mouth.
- Vitamin C maintains the connective tissues in gums so you don’t experience loose teeth, bleeding gums, and periodontal diseases such as gingivitis and scurvy. Look for it in citrus fruits, peppers, and sweet potatoes, for example.
- Vitamin D aids in bone and tooth mineralization, reducing the likelihood of oral diseases such as burning mouth syndrome.
- Vitamin K promotes absorption of calcium in the bloodstream, making more available for teeth and bones.
What if you’re not getting enough vitamins and minerals from your diet?
You may come to a point when you feel that you’re not consuming enough of one or more of these vitamins or minerals. If that’s the case, supplements can help make up for these deficiencies.
But before you do, talk to your dentist or physician about what works best for you. They will know your mineral and vitamin needs, which products might help address them, and which medications might interact adversely with the supplements.
The best defense is being proactive, so take the time to learn more about the vitamins and minerals that will best protect the oral health of you and your family!
Learn the top 3 reasons your teeth love turkey day by reading our holiday blog.
