We may take vitamins on a daily basis, whether it’s for healthy hair and skin, healthy bones, or a possible deficiency. We all know teeth are part of the body and need just as much care as everything else, so what are the best vitamins and minerals to help keep them how we want them? Keep reading to find out!
Calcium is probably one of the best vitamins for our bones and teeth. Calcium helps to harden enamel and strengthens your jawbone, along with building bone structure throughout the entire body. When I think of calcium, I think of dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt. What can we substitute for milk if some of us share a common problem: lactose intolerance? Other good sources of calcium include broccoli, other dark leafy greens, almonds, beans, and salmon!
Potassium is another great mineral necessary to our dental health. It improves bone mineral density, along with preventing blood from becoming too acidic, which can be damaging to our teeth. Bananas aren’t the only food that contain potassium; lima beans, tomatoes, potatoes, avocados and prunes are also excellent sources.
Up in the north, especially during the winter months, it’s very common to become deficient in Vitamin D since the sun is not as powerful and rarely out. This vitamin is commonly known for improving mental health by boosting serotonin levels in the brain, helping your seasonal affective disorder. Vitamin D also helps the body absorb calcium, and boosts bone mineral density. Without Vitamin D, calcium is not flowing through the body as nicely, causing your teeth and other bones to become weak, and more prone to fracturing or loosening. Low levels of Vitamin D can also contribute to periodontal disease. Canned tuna and other fatty fish are great sources for Vitamin D, of course a nice tropical vacation could also help ;)
These are only a few examples of how different vitamins are helpful to our oral health. It’s important to know that your teeth need care just as much as the rest of your body. Like always, we’re just a phone call away if you have any questions!