Here’s Why Your Teeth Love Calcium
Make Sure Your Smile (and Body) Is Getting Enough!
We’ve all heard the saying: “calcium builds strong bones and teeth”! But did you know that calcium is a critical component in not only building our teeth, but in keeping our mouths healthy and strong?
Calcium plays a vital role in the healthy development of the teeth in children who are growing, and even helps to prevent cavities by neutralizing acid levels in the mouth. A diet rich in calcium can also help to reduce a person’s risk for gum disease. So, ultimately, we all need enough calcium at every stage of our lives in order to support a healthy mouth and body. We should also make sure that we aren’t deficient in vitamin D either, as it aids in the absorption of calcium into the bloodstream.
Since our bodies are unable to produce calcium without any help, we must make sure we’re getting the mineral ideally from natural food sources, or from oral supplements (capsules, chewables, etc.).
Calcium-dense foods
There are many different food sources that are high in calcium content. These include milk, soymilk, yogurt, cheese, kale, bok choy, tofu, white beans, brazil nuts, almonds, sesame seeds, salmon and sardines (with bones). There’s really something for everyone (unless you’re the pickiest eater on the planet)!
For the love of cheese
Did you know? Chewing on a piece of hard cheese after eating anything high in sugars/acids will instantly help you to neutralize your mouth acidity and reduce your cavity risk. Or, a glass of milk or a even a dairy-free beverage like almond, soy or coconut milk containing a great source of calcium will also provide a benefit. So if you haven’t access to a toothbrush, reach for a calcium source to help protect that enamel from the harmful effects of acid bacteria!
Have you been getting enough?
To ensure you’re getting enough calcium in your diet, talk to your doctor. And besides fortifying your friendship with calcium, remember to make an appointment with the dentist if you’re due for a check-up and cleaning. Our Etobicoke dentist Dr. Jung would be happy if you came to visit! Call us today.
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