How Essential Nutrients Keep Your Teeth Healthy
Brentwood, TN

Your teeth comprise a variety of tissues, including enamel, dentin, and cementum. Enamel is the hardest substance in the human body, and it protects your teeth from decay. Dentin is the layer of tissue underneath the enamel, providing support for the tooth. Cementum is the layer of tissue that attaches the tooth to the jawbone.

Over 90% of adults in the United States have cavities, and 50% of adults over the age of 30 have gum disease. Children are also affected, with 40% of those between the ages of 2 and 19 having cavities. Gum disease is more common in adults, but children can also get it.

CDC.gov

To stay healthy, your teeth need various nutrients; you need to avoid some eating habits. These nutrients help to keep your teeth strong, resistant to decay, and free from infection.

Some of the most important nutrients for your teeth include:

• Calcium: Calcium is the main mineral that makes up your teeth. It helps to keep your teeth strong and resistant to decay.
• Phosphorus: Phosphorus works with calcium to keep your teeth strong. It also helps to keep your gums healthy.
• Vitamin D: Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium. This is essential for keeping your teeth strong.
• Vitamin C: Vitamin C helps to keep your gums healthy. It also helps to protect your teeth from infection.
• Fluoride: Fluoride is a mineral that helps to strengthen your teeth and make them more resistant to decay.

Eating a healthy diet rich in these nutrients can help keep your teeth healthy. You can also get these nutrients from supplements.

Here is a more detailed look at how each of these nutrients helps to keep your teeth healthy:

Calcium: Calcium is the most important mineral for your teeth. It makes up about 70% of the enamel, which is the hard outer layer of your teeth. Calcium also helps to keep your bones strong. If you don’t get enough calcium, your teeth may become weak and susceptible to decay.

(Video) Vitamin D and calcium builds strong teeth and bones.

Good sources of calcium include:

• Dairy products, such as milk, yogurt, and cheese
• Dark green leafy vegetables, such as broccoli, kale, and collard greens
• Fortified foods, such as orange juice and cereal

Phosphorus: Phosphorus is another important mineral for your teeth. It works with calcium to keep your teeth strong and resistant to decay. Phosphorus is also found in bones, so it is important for overall bone health.

Good sources of phosphorus include:

• Dairy products, such as milk, yogurt, and cheese
• Meat, poultry, and fish
• Beans and lentils
• Nuts and seeds

(Video) role of phosphorus for healthy teeth

Vitamin D: Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium. This is essential for keeping your teeth strong. Vitamin D is also important for overall bone health

Good sources of vitamin D include:

• Sunlight
• Fatty fish, such as salmon, tuna, and mackerel
• Fortified foods, such as milk and orange juice

Vitamin C: Vitamin C helps to keep your gums healthy. It also helps to protect your teeth from infection. Vitamin C is also important for overall immune health.

Good sources of vitamin C include:

• Citrus fruits, such as oranges, lemons, and grapefruits
• Strawberries
• Broccoli
• Brussels sprouts

(Video) vitamin c for healthy teeth

Fluoride: Fluoride is a mineral that helps to strengthen your teeth and make them more resistant to decay. Fluoride is added to most public water supplies in the United States. You can also get fluoride from toothpaste, mouthwash, and supplements.

(Video) Is Fluoride in Water Safe to Drink?

In addition to these essential nutrients, there are a few other things you can do to keep your teeth healthy:

• Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time.
• Floss once a day.
• See your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.
• Avoid sugary foods and drinks.
• Eat a healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

By following these tips, you can help to keep your teeth healthy for a lifetime.

Here are some additional tips for keeping your teeth healthy:

• Limit your intake of acidic foods and drinks, such as soda, fruit juice, and sports drinks. These foods and drinks can erode your tooth enamel, making your teeth more susceptible to decay.
• If you smoke, quit. Smoking can damage your gums and increase your risk of tooth loss.
• Talk to your dentist if you have any concerns about your oral health. They can help you develop a personalized oral health care plan.

Following these tips can help keep your teeth healthy and beautiful for a lifetime.

Brentwood Dentist – Hallmark Dental can help you and your family keep your teeth and gums healthy. We offer a wide range of comprehensive dental services, so you can be sure we have the right treatment for your needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment, and we will happily answer your oral health questions.