Over 90% of adults in the US are affected by tooth decay. While slightly more promising, children – from two to 19 – aren’t in a much better position with 40% dealing with this considerable dental health issue. Poor hygiene is the primary cause of gum disease, cavities, and other dental problems. While brushing and flossing are important, the foods we eat also play a large role in the health of our teeth. Here, we’ve outlined a few of the most important vitamins that you can leverage to help your child improve their dental health.
Calcium
Everyone knows that milk builds strong bones, but not many people are away how this everyday drink can help reinforce dental health too. The calcium found in milk and other dairy products works to maintain the structure and strength of teeth. This ensures they’re robust enough to ward off bacteria and chomp through even thicker food items.
Vitamin D
In order to make the most of calcium’s benefits, your body must be able to properly absorb it. This is why vitamin D is important. As an essential vitamin, it helps your body absorb calcium more effectively. In addition, vitamin D works to boost our body’s bone mineral density too. Fortunately, vitamin D can be absorbed from the sun and from a healthy, varied diet.
Phosphorus
Although phosphorous doesn’t sound like a naturally occurring element in our body, we actually have a significant amount in our teeth. This mineral works along with calcium to rebuild and protect the protective layer of enamel around our teeth. It also helps us consume and use calcium. For these reasons, phosphorous should be an important part of your diet to reinforce strong and healthy teeth. This mineral can be found in a wide variety of foods, including meat, eggs, nuts, pumpkin seeds, lentils, dried fruit, soybeans, and many kinds of seafood.
Iron
Maintaining strong teeth is also about making sure your gums are healthy. Many dental health supplements focusing on gum health will include iron since this mineral assists in the maintenance of red blood cell levels in the body. With more iron, your immune system is stronger and better equipped to defend against disease and infection. The most consistent flossing and brushing can’t make up for a lack of iron.
B Vitamins
Vitamins B12, B3, and B2 all fall under this umbrella. If you’re hoping to maintain strong and healthy gums, you shouldn’t look past these options. This group of B vitamins prevents bad breath and mouth sores when there’s a sufficient amount of each. Poultry, fish, and meat are all great sources of B vitamins, although some leafy greens such as spinach also offer a respectable amount.
Vitamin A
As the first letter in the alphabet, Vitamin A should also be at the top of your list of essential vitamins for teeth health. With enough Vitamin A, your body can create and maintain underlying tissues that are an integral part of a healthy, pain-free, and functioning dental network. Also, it aids in the production of saliva which helps clear out food particles and bacteria from between your teeth, under the tongue, and throughout the mouth.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is perhaps the best known and one of the most commonly used supplements. It helps you maintain healthy gums by boosting the strength of connective tissues and blood vessels that support teeth. The boost Vitamin C offers your body’s immune system can also help with healing processes that enhance dental health. A lack of this essential vitamin might lead to bleed gums, inflammation, longer healing processes, and other undesirable.