Our teeth need vitamins and minerals to stay healthy and strong. Vitamins and minerals help fortify our teeth. They also help ward off tooth and gum diseases.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is an essential vitamin for your body, but did you know it also helps with your oral health? This vitamin helps promote saliva production in your mouth and strengthens your teeth’s enamel, or the hard outer shell of your teeth. Your dentist may recommend vitamin D supplements if you’re deficient in the vitamin.
Your body produces vitamin D naturally when you’re exposed to sunlight. However, many people don’t get enough sun exposure in their daily lives. That’s why it’s important to get your levels checked to see if you could benefit from taking supplements.
Calcium
Calcium is a mineral that your teeth need to stay strong. It also keeps gums healthy and prevents tooth decay. You can get calcium from dairy products like milk and cheese, as well as from leafy green vegetables.
However, too much calcium can cause you to have too much of it in other areas of the body, like your heart and kidneys. Be sure to talk to your dentist about how much calcium is safe for you to take in a day. That way, you can keep your teeth and body in tip-top shape!
Fluoride
Fluoride is an element that is found in nature, and this mineral is known for its ability to strengthen the enamel of your teeth. This can help to prevent further tooth decay and cavities from developing over time. Having fluoride treatments done twice a year at the dentist’s office can be a great way to protect your teeth against decay and strengthen them at the same time.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, has antioxidant properties that reduce the formation of free radicals in your mouth. Free radicals cause wear to your teeth and gum tissues, leading to inflammation and even periodontal disease. By reducing their formation, you can protect your oral health and prevent future issues.
You can increase your intake of vitamin C by eating plenty of citrus fruits and leafy green vegetables. You can also take a supplement to help replace any nutrients you may be missing from your diet.
Vitamin C is water-soluble, meaning your body excretes it in your urine if you don’t use it. However, taking too much can lead to diarrhea, nausea, and other digestive issues. It’s best to speak to your dentist first to discuss how much you need based on your diet and oral health history.
If you would like to learn more, speak to our dentist today to schedule a consultation. Visit Caspian Dental Center at 410 Park Grove Dr., Katy, TX 77450, or call us at 832-321-4901 now.
