The Effect of Vitamins and Minerals on Your Teeth

The human body is made up of numerous organic substances. Apart from building and protecting the body, vitamins and minerals play a vital role in the teeth’ growth, development, and protection. Proteins and vitamins are micronutrients that must be consumed to maintain good oral health.

Over 90% of the United States of America’s population is affected by tooth decay and cavities. Periodontal diseases are common in 50% of adults above the age of 30. Proper oral hygiene and good food habits can keep these dental ailments at bay.

The Lowdown on Nutrition Affects Teeth Health

A well-balanced meal is essential to maintain the body. Nutrients derived from meals support the growth, development, and protection of the body. A diet lacking the essential nutrients can increase the risk of infection and diseases.

Various food and beverages can affect the teeth adversely and strengthen the teeth as well. Sugary, starchy, acidic food, and drinks erode the teeth and make the teeth brittle. On the contrary, micronutrients as vitamins and minerals can protect the teeth against infection and make the teeth strong.

Minerals that Matter to Your Teeth

Dentists near you can insist on adapting good food habits and including fresh leafy fruits and vegetables. Green vegetables are rich source of minerals that help in the development and protection of the teeth.

Calcium

Consumption of calcium can help effectively to strengthen your teeth. Calcium forms a significant component of the bone and teeth. Depending on the age, the average consumption of calcium for an adult man is 1000 milligrams.

Apart from medicine and supplements, calcium can be obtained from different foods, beverages, and milk. Dairy products as cheese and butter also provide an excellent source of calcium. Soya milk, tofu, beans, nuts, fish like salmon, and sardines are other sources of calcium.

Phosphorous

Phosphorous works in collaboration with calcium to make the teeth strong and resistant to erosion. Phosphorous is abundant in various foods, and a large portion of human teeth are made with phosphorous. Phosphorous is also essential for the synthesis of calcium, and deficiency can make the teeth brittle. Seafood, chicken, whole grains, nuts, and pork form the natural source of phosphorous.

Potassium

Potassium teams up with magnesium to maintain the level of acidity in the blood. When the level of acidity increases in the blood, the calcium from the teeth and jawbones gets eroded. Such erosion of calcium can make the teeth and jawbones brittle and susceptible to infections.

Potassium is abundant in bananas, prunes, sweet potatoes, avocados, and tomatoes. Specific toothpaste also contains potassium in the form of potassium nitrate that reduces toothaches.

Why Take Vitamins and Minerals for Good Oral Health?

Brushing and flossing can be the primary way to maintain good oral health. Nutrients are essential to build and protect the teeth from ailments. The mouth and gums are the first contact point for the consumption of nutrients. The chewing of food helps to extract nutrients instantly. Lack of nutrients can cause inflammation and loss of teeth.

Vitamin D

In Holmdel, NJ, a dentist opines that calcium and Vitamin D can work in unison to protect the teeth from infections and cavities. The deficiency of Vitamin D can cause cavities, periodontal diseases, and gingival inflammation. Inadequate presence of vitamin D can also result in tooth mineralization. Vitamin D is abundant in milk, cereals, oily fish like salmon, herring, and mackerel.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is an excellent micronutrient for both gums and teeth. Vitamin C helps to strengthen the connective tissues that hold the teeth in place. Deficiencies of vitamin C can cause inflammation and bleeding of the gums.

Citrus fruits like grapes, oranges, lemon, cauliflower, green or red pepper, spinach, turnips, cabbages, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts are excellent natural sources of vitamin C.

Vitamin A

Apart from the teeth, vitamin A is essential for the eyes and skin. Vitamin A stimulates the production of saliva that helps to break down food and clean the oral bacterias from the oral cavity. Thus, vitamin A keeps the mouth clean and fights oral infection. Orange-colored fruits and vegetables as oranges, carrot, bell peppers and egg yolk are a natural source of vitamin A.

Visiting the Dentist

Apart from the consumption of micronutrients, visiting the dentist at regular intervals is a must. A&A Dental can be your Holmdel dentist. With family-friendly experienced dentists and in-office discount plans, you may book an appointment to avail of dental treatment powered by advanced technology.