When we think about caring for our oral health, we usually think about brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and making regular visits to our dentist. But when was the last time you considered making adjustments to your diet? Did you ever stop to think that the foods you eat and the supplements you take can make a difference?
Today, your dentist offers five vitamins for teeth and gums that can really give you a healthy advantage against bacteria.
Calcium
We know that calcium is good for bones, but it’s also fantastic for your teeth! Whether it’s from a supplement or from your favorite dairy products, calcium helps form and maintain healthy teeth. It’s also very easy for the body to absorb, allowing you to benefit very quickly. Foods that include high dosages of calcium include eggs, yogurt, and cheese. Additionally, you can find large dosages in leafy greens and fortified cereals.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is beneficial because it works to form and maintain tissues in the mouth, as well as the mucous membranes. Technically, there are two types of vitamin A out there. They include performed vitamin A and provitamin A.
Performed vitamin A is typically found in animal proteins like meat and poultry, while provitamin A is found in fruits and vegetables.
Phosphorus
Did you know that most of the phosphorous in your body is found in your teeth? It’s incredibly important to tooth health because it keeps them strong. To do this, it works in tandem with calcium to maintain and repair the body’s tissues.
You can find phosphorus in many protein-rich foods, such as meats, eggs, nuts, and dairy products. However, it can also be found in grains, carbonated drinks, and dried fruits. Of course, you’ll want to moderate your consumption of the last two foods since they can damage your teeth.
Vitamin C
When caring for your gums, you’re going to want to make sure you have enough vitamin C in your diet. Vitamin C is necessary for the formation of blood vessels and other tissues that support teeth. It’s also important for helping the mouth heal, which is essential if you have an ulcer or canker sore present. If you notice your gums bleeding, it could be due to a deficiency in vitamin C.
You can find this vitamin in citrus fruits, berries, spinach, and most fruits and vegetables.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is very important because it allows your body to properly absorb calcium, a key vitamin for keeping teeth healthy. By getting enough vitamin D, your intestines can absorb calcium and send it into the bloodstream.
While some foods are given extra vitamin D, you can always find it in milk and breakfast cereals.
Keeping a balanced diet is not only great for your overall health, but your oral health as well. To learn more nutritional tips to keep teeth and gums healthy, schedule an appointment with your dentist in Lincoln!
About the Author
Along with his DDS degree, Dr. Benjamin Gessford earned his undergraduate degree in Biology. If you aren’t sure how to create a diet that promotes good oral health, he can help you get started, as well as confirm your mouth is in top condition! To learn more about his practice, contact him through his website or by calling him at (402) 420-2222. You can find him at Williamsburg Dental’s East location.