Proper oral hygiene is paramount to the health of your gums and teeth. That means brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing just as regularly. Visiting your Dallas dentist once a year for check-ups is also essential. They can identify issues that are still minor and fix them before they snowball into problems that can cause damage to your teeth.
But that’s not all! Sure, these are the most basic steps one can take to keep their gums and teeth in top condition, but diet plays a crucial role too. The lack of vitamins in your body can take a toll on your oral health.
Prevention is always easier than treatment. Not to mention, it’s pain-free!
Here’s a list of the vitamins you should include in your diet to maintain the health of your mouth.
Vitamin C
Studies have shown that low levels of vitamin C can lead to the development of periodontitis, a severe gum infection that can destroy the bone that supports your teeth. In fact, a lack of vitamin C was the main culprit behind scurvy, a disease common to sailors and pirates that caused them to lose their teeth.
The moral here is simple: be sure to include vitamin C-rich foods in your diet. We’re not talking here only about citrus fruits, such as oranges or grapefruits, but also broccoli, sweet potatoes, berries, and bell peppers.
Calcium
Calcium makes the bones strong – you’ve probably heard this adage countless of times as a child. A decrease in calcium levels can lead to a variety of medical problems including tooth loss.
Calcium-rich foods, such as leafy greens, broccoli, almonds, and sardines can help you keep your calcium levels in check and as a result of that, keep your teeth strong. Don’t take calcium supplements if there’s no indication of a deficiency, as they can cause serious medical issues, such as kidney stones.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D plays a vital role in absorbing calcium. Sure, the sun is the best source of vitamin D, but if you’re spending most of your time at the office or inside your home, you may not be getting enough of it. Make sure to include vitamin D-rich foods in your diet, such as fatty fish, eggs, milk, and cheese.
When it comes to oral health, vitamin D has a newly discovered function. It works as an anti-inflammatory agent and it stimulates the production of antimicrobial peptides.
Conclusion
The condition of your teeth and gums doesn’t only impact your overall health but your psychological well-being too. A lost tooth or a crooked smile can make you self-conscious about your appearance and can affect your self-esteem. Prevention starts with proper oral health hygiene and a balanced diet.
If you’re not sure what steps you should take to maintain the health of your mouth, then you should consult with your Dallas dentist. Here at Dallas Dental Wellness, you can find a team of professionals that can help you achieve and maintain optimal oral health.
References:
https://www.123dentist.com/best-vitamins-and-minerals-for-teeth/
https://www.simplysupplements.co.uk/healthylife/teeth-and-gums/supplements-to-strengthen-teeth-and-gums
https://www.livestrong.com/article/83455-vitamins-teeth-gums/
