Strong teeth and bones are hallmarks of a healthy person. The addition of calcium and other minerals to our diet, along with a regular brushing and flossing routine, can make all the difference in your smile. Let’s take a look at which vitamins and products can help your teeth be as strong as possible.
Healthy Food Choices
It’s important to consume the recommended daily allowance of calcium, which you can get from milk as well as supplements. Additional sources of calcium include low-fat dairy products, fortified soy and rice beverages, salmon, nuts such as almonds, and green leafy vegetables. You also need plenty of vitamin D, which helps your body absorb calcium. Vitamin D can be found in milk, fortified soy and rice drinks, margarine and fatty fish like salmon (also high in omega-3s). You can also get this crucial mineral through moderate exposure to the sun. Avoid medications that block the absorption of calcium (your doctor should be able to tell you about any conflicts).
For strong tooth enamel, consume enough phosphorus, which can be found in certain meats, fish, and eggs, and magnesium, inherent in whole grains, bananas and spinach. Look for sources of beta carotene when shopping in the grocery store, which usually comes in the form of orange-colored fruits and vegetables (carrots) and green leafy vegetables (kale and spinach).
Vitamin K is another vital component to your diet if you want to promote strong teeth. Not only does Vitamin K help with blood clotting, it also improves your bone mineralization. A deficiency in this mineral could result in weak teeth, leaving you susceptible to tooth decay and disease. You may be deficient in vitamin K if your gums bleed excessively after brushing or flossing.
Fluoride
In addition to a well-balanced diet, you can benefit from the addition of fluoride to ensure healthy teeth and gums. Fluoride occurs naturally in foods and water, and can be a powerful tool in fighting decay, reducing the rate of cavities by as much as 60 percent, according to Reader’s Digest. Some cities and towns add fluoride to their water supplies; other times, you have to add your own or get supplements from the dentist. Some beverages are made with fluoridated water. Use toothpaste and mouthwash that contains fluoride. Just be careful: too much fluoride can mottle the teeth. Talk to your dentist.
Avoid Tobacco
The American Dental Association says one of the top reasons people get gum disease and tooth decay is from smoking or chewing tobacco. Not only can tobacco reduce the strength of your teeth, it can lead to unsightly yellowing of the teeth as well as chronic bad breath.
Making healthy food and vitamin choices is key in ensuring strong tooth development. Brush and floss twice a day and visit your dentist twice a year for the best results.
Lastly, crooked teeth can also put you at increased risk of cavities and gum disease. Schedule a free examination with our doctors to see how braces can improve your smile and dental health.
