Many people wonder whether or not it’s possible to make their teeth stronger and more resilient to the effects of harmful oral bacteria. Even though your mouth often feels like a completely separate entity from the rest of your body, it can benefit from the same vitamins and minerals that the rest of your body can. You know that calcium strengthens bones, but did you also know that it can help protect your teeth too? Read on to learn how calcium can fortify your enamel and what other vitamins and minerals can benefit your mouth.
Calcium: The Oral Miracle
Calcium is a mineral that’s abundantly stored in your teeth and bones. In fact, according to The National Institute of Health, 99 percent of it is found in these areas of your body. However, this magical mineral has a special relationship with your mouth because it can help protect your teeth.
When you first started forming teeth underneath your gums in the womb, calcium played a key part in the creation of your tooth buds. Your tooth enamel formed from a combination of calcium and phosphorous, keeping your teeth shielded from decay and acids. That being said, not getting enough of the mineral can cause your teeth to become in-danger and weak.
Getting Enough Calcium To Protect Your Teeth
When you make sure that you’re getting enough calcium, you’ll be able to enjoy several overall health benefits besides stronger teeth. The best way to do this is to take vitamins and supplements or eat calcium-rich foods that can be absorbed by your body. Some great snacks and drinks to eat to strengthen your teeth and bones include:
- Most cheeses contain high amounts of calcium. Parmesan cheese in particular contains 331 mg of calcium per once.
- Yogurt contains live probiotics to help your digestive system as well as calcium. Low-fat yogurt often contains even higher amounts of this mineral.
- Although sardines and canned salmon are often acquired-tastes, they contain high levels of calcium and omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for your gums, heart, brain, and skin.
- Almonds are a unique nut that contain high amounts of calcium.
These are only a few foods that are great sources of calcium. For people who have lactose intolerance, they can gain their calcium from certain vegetables and foods, like some of the ones listed above.
Other Steps To Take To Protect Your Teeth From Decay
Eating a diet rich in vitamins and minerals such as calcium is a great way to keep your oral health on track, but it’s not the only way. When paired with routine at-home dental hygiene and professional checkups and cleanings every six months, you’ll be able to drastically reduce your risk of developing common oral health problems as well as medical conditions associated with them.
About the Practice
At Pearl Dental Associates, we aim to provide each of our patients with high-quality and thorough preventive dental care that gives them the tools and knowledge they need to maintain great oral health. We use the latest dental technology and even offer convenient late and Saturday appointments to accommodate our patients’ busy schedules. For questions or to schedule a checkup and cleaning, visit our website or call 781-767-0979.