Your teeth and gums depend on certain nutrients to stay in good shape. Without proper care of your oral health, it may affect the rest of your physical health. Here are the top 6 vitamin and minerals your mouth needs:
1) Vitamin A
Often associated with good eyesight, Vitamin A helps maintain healthy salivary flow in the mouth. Also keeps your gums healthy and ensures proper healing.
Great sources: Carrots, mangoes, sweet potatoes as well as kale, spinach, and collard greens.
2) Vitamin B
Helps keeps stress under control but more importantly reduces tongue inflammation and keeps canker sores from making a painful appearance.
Great sources: Beans, legumes and green vegetables.
3) Vitamin C
Good for periodontal health but also aids in preventing gum inflammation. People deficient in Vitamin C have trouble maintaining healthy connective tissue in the gums.
Great sources: Citrus fruit, broccoli, kale, berries and many other fruit and vegetable sources.
4) Vitamin D
Called the sunshine vitamin, it helps regulate blood levels of calcium and phosphorus. Without adequate Vitamin D, your body can’t absorb the calcium it needs to keep developing strong teeth.
Great sources: 15 minutes of bright sunshine, 3 times a week. As well as some breakfast cereals and cod liver oil capsules.
5) Calcium
Most of the body’s calcium is stored in the bones, where it provides strength and structure. Calcium is constantly circulating in small amounts through the bloodstream and is carefully regulated by your body. Calcium also helps prevent osteoporosis, which can lead to bone fractures and weak bone tissue around the teeth.
Great sources: Green leafy vegetables, cauliflower, cabbage, almonds and orange juice.
6) Coenzyme Q10
Works as a catalyst for metabolism, providing cells with the energy they need to heal wounds, digest food and maintain healthy muscles. Coenzyme Q10 heals, reduces pain and decreases the bleeding associated with gum disease, also has been shown to reduce inflammation in the gums.
Great sources: Canola and soybean oil and parsley (which is great for fighting bad breath)
With more awareness about diet and health, our patients are not only making better choices today but also improving their quality of life long-term. We are always looking for ways to learn, grow and contribute to our patients.
Talk to us about any dental concerns you may have.
