When you think about your diet, what kind of foods come to mind? Potatoes and pizza or sandwiches and stir fry? No matter what you choose to ingest, you may realize that you’re lacking an appropriate amount of calcium. Valuable not only because it can support your body’s bones, but it can also have a positive impact on your oral health, more specifically, your teeth. Read on to discover just how beneficial calcium can be when it comes to ensuring the lifespan of your smile.
What is the Link Between Calcium and Oral Health?
Have you been told by a doctor that you have strong bones? It may be because you are consuming an adequate amount of calcium. The American Dental Association (ADA) states that calcium is one of the most beneficial nutrients your body needs to ensure stronger bones. It’s also helpful in strengthening your tooth enamel, which can ultimately ward off dental decay.
But how can you know if you’re getting an ample amount of calcium in your daily diet? The National Institutes of Health suggest that 1,000 mg should be consumed each day by individuals who are between the ages of 19 and 50.
Because certain health conditions can arise with each passing year, making sure you are getting enough calcium in your diet can help minimize the potential for osteoporosis, dental decay, and possible tooth loss.
How Can You Know If You’re Getting Enough Calcium?
Apart from evaluating your diet and determining whether you eat enough calcium-rich foods, you may discover that you have a calcium deficiency if your teeth become loose, more fragile, or even fall out.
This reality can then lead to costlier dental work because of the need to replace missing teeth. While it may not always be easy to eat the appropriate amount of calcium each day, it will be in your best interest if you want to avoid paying for tooth replacement and the upkeep that is required.
Which Calcium-Rich Foods Should Be Consumed?
If you are looking to add calcium to your diet but are unsure where to start, you can find the list below to be a helpful resource:
- Milk
- Yogurt
- Cheese
- Almonds
- Seeds
- Dark Leafy Greens
- Beans
Apart from calcium, making sure that you eat plenty of foods that are rich in Vitamin C and phosphorus can also help to boost your oral health, more specifically, your gums. By keeping these soft tissues healthy, you ensure that your teeth remain firmly in place and protected.
Don’t let another day go by without adding calcium to your diet. Whether it’s a glass of milk in the morning with breakfast or adding a cup of yogurt to your lunch, you’ll be thankful for the addition when you start seeing the benefits in your smile.
About the McCarl Dental Group
McCarl Dental Group wants to help all patients combat tooth decay and gum disease. By recommending positive oral hygiene habits, we can ensure that each individual has the knowledge and skills to keep smiles happy in between appointments. However, if a person’s diet leaves much to be desired, problems can still arise, which is why we are here to offer suggestions when it comes to maintaining a healthier diet and smile. Call our dental office today to learn how we can help.