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We know that proper nutrition is important for supporting overall health but we often forget that our gums and teeth are included in our overall health. Consuming the recommended vitamins and nutrients, be it through food or through supplements, is essential to maintaining good oral health. Here are a few nutrients that you should make sure you are getting in to keep your teeth and gums as healthy as possible.
Calcium
You already know how important calcium is for your bone health but you may not realize how essential it is for your teeth. The National Institutes of Health affirm that calcium is necessary for both the development and sustainability of healthy teeth and gums. Yogurt and milk are an easy way to get the calcium you need, especially because they contain a type of calcium that your body can absorb quickly. Salmon and bone-in sardines are also packed with calcium, as are fortified cereals, leafy greens, and blackstrap molasses as vegan options.
Phosphorus
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, phosphorus is one of the most commonly occurring minerals in the human body and a great deal of it is found in the teeth. It helps your body to repair and maintain the body’s tissues and works with calcium to strengthen your teeth. Luckily, many of the foods you eat every day have phosphorus in them, such as meat and dairy products, legumes, whole grains, eggs, and even some carbonated drinks. Typically, supplements are not necessary to get the recommended amount of phosphorus.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is beneficial for both your dental and vision health. It helps in the development and sustainability of tissues, including those in the mouth, such as the teeth and mucous membranes. There are two forms of Vitamin A; provitamin A and preformed vitamin A. Preformed Vitamin A is found in meat, dairy, and other animal products. Provitamin A is found in fruits and veggies and converts into its active form in the body.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C, in addition to being good for the teeth, is very good for gum health. According to The Mayo Clinic, Vitamin C supports blood vessel development and other tissues that support the teeth. It is also essential to the healing process and people with a Vitamin C deficiency may find that they experience bleeding of the gums. Fruits, berries, spinach, and Brussels sprouts are all an excellent source of Vitamin C.
If you are looking for a Westerville, OH dentist, please consider the Sampson Dental Group. We are accepting new patients and would love to make you a part of our “dental” family. For more information about our services, please click here.