When you’re planning your diet, do you consider its impact on your dental health? Your teeth and gums need vitamins and minerals just like the rest of your body. Without enough of certain nutrients, you could face deficiencies and a higher risk of infections. A poor diet can lead to dental problems, tooth loss, and even obesity, and these issues are all connected.
Your teeth and the bones in your jaw are large and need calcium to grow healthily. If you don’t get enough calcium, you might increase your risk of gum disease, tooth decay, and bone loss. You can find calcium in milk, cheese, and other dairy products, as well as in beans, broccoli, and oysters. Vitamin D is important too because it helps your body absorb calcium. Good sources of vitamin D include fortified dairy products, fish, and egg yolks.
B vitamins are also crucial for dental health. Vitamin B3 can help reduce the chances of getting canker sores and bad breath. Low levels of vitamins B12 and B2 are linked to mouth sores. You can get vitamin B3 from fish and chicken, while B2 and B12 are found in pasta, bread, and almonds.
Vitamin C is vital for healthy gums. Without enough vitamin C, you could experience sore or bleeding gums or even loose teeth. Citrus fruits, bell peppers, kiwis, cantaloupes, and sweet potatoes are great sources of vitamin C.
Fluoride helps your teeth re-mineralize faster and prevents cavities. Many public water supplies are fluoridated, but if yours isn’t or you drink mostly bottled water, ask your dentist about fluoride supplements. Using fluoride toothpaste and mouth rinse can also boost your fluoride intake.
In summary, good dental health isn’t just about brushing and flossing; it’s also about making sure you’re getting the right nutrients from your diet.