At the start of a new year, one thing many people vow to do is eat healthier. If you want to support healthier gums and teeth, there are vitamins and minerals you should consider. These nutrients are necessary for overall health, but we want to highlight their benefits to your oral health.
Good oral habits along with a healthy diet can support optimal oral health. Here are several vitamins and minerals for healthier teeth and gums.
Calcium helps harden tooth enamel and strengthen the jawbone. Milk, cheese, yogurt, salmon, kale, spinach, and broccoli are good sources of calcium.
Potassium increases bone mineral density for a strong jawbone and helps blood to clot, which helps bleeding gums heal quickly. Foods high in potassium are avocados, bananas, beans, squash, milk, yogurt, and cheese.
Phosphorus supports calcium in building strong bones and teeth. Rich sources of phosphorus include tuna, salmon, shrimp, beef, soybeans, pumpkin seeds, and cheese.
Vitamin A helps to keep the mucous membranes healthy, prevent dry mouth, and promote quick healing. Sweet potatoes, red peppers, carrots, leafy greens, egg yolks, and beef liver are great choices to increase vitamin A levels.
Vitamin C helps to strengthen the gums and soft tissue in your mouth, which can help prevent gingivitis and assist with preventing loose teeth. Citrus fruits, cauliflower, and leafy greens are good sources of vitamin C.
Vitamin D is necessary to help the body absorb calcium. The body produces vitamin D when it’s exposed to sunlight. However, many people don’t get enough vitamin D. So eat foods like fatty fish, egg yolks, cheese, and beef liver to increase levels of this vitamin.
Vitamin K helps to block substances from weakening bone, and it helps the body to produce a protein (osteocalcin) that strengthens bone. It also helps the blood to clot, which speeds healing. Eat foods like Brussels sprouts, kale, spinach, and collards to increase vitamin K levels.
Dental health and overall health are connected. So I hope this information helps you to make healthy choices for a healthier you. Practice good oral hygiene habits by brushing your teeth twice daily and flossing once a day. Get regularly scheduled dental exams and cleanings.
How long has it been since your last visit? Contact our office to schedule an appointment. We look forward to seeing you.
Best,
Dr. Ruth Roach Morgan and Dr. Jessica Morgan Vaughn