You may remember the old slogan – “Milk: it does a body good.” Turns out, the key mineral found in milk – calcium – plays a vital role not just in your overall health, but your oral health, too. In this article, you’ll learn the specifics of how this essential nutrient benefits your smile and how to make sure you get plenty of it!
Calcium Helps Strengthen Tooth Enamel
Tooth enamel is the hard, protective outer layer of your teeth. Although it is the strongest substance in the human body, it can gradually weaken when exposed to acids produced by oral bacteria and acidic foods and beverages.
Calcium is one of the primary minerals that make up tooth enamel. Along with phosphate, it helps maintain enamel’s strength and structure. Your saliva also contains minerals that can help repair early mineral loss through a process called remineralization.
Eating calcium-rich foods supports your body’s mineral needs, but calcium cannot rebuild a cavity once significant tooth decay has developed. Brushing with fluoride toothpaste, limiting frequent sugary snacks, and attending regular dental checkups remain essential for preventing cavities.
Calcium Supports Healthy Jawbones
Your teeth rely on the jawbone for support. Calcium is vital for maintaining strong bones throughout your body, including the bones that hold your teeth in place.
Getting enough calcium helps support normal bone maintenance and development. This is especially important as a youngster when bones and permanent teeth are developing. Adults also need enough calcium to maintain bone health as they age.
Calcium Contributes to Healthy Gum Function
Although calcium is best known for its role in bones and teeth, getting enough of this mineral also supports normal muscle function and other essential processes throughout the body.
Healthy gums help protect the tissues surrounding your teeth. While calcium isn’t a direct treatment for gum disease, maintaining a balanced diet that supplies essential nutrients supports overall health. Brushing twice daily, flossing every day, and preventive dental care help control plaque, a major contributor to gum inflammation.
How You Can Get More of It
Calcium is available in a variety of everyday foods! An 8-ounce cup of cow’s milk accounts for about 30 percent of the daily calcium requirement for most adults. Other dairy products such as milk, yogurt, and cheese are well-known sources.
Other options include calcium-fortified plant-based beverages, calcium-set tofu, canned sardines or salmon with edible bones, and certain leafy green vegetables.
If you’re worried you’re not getting enough calcium, a healthcare professional or registered dietitian can discuss your diet with you and figure out if supplements are appropriate.
Calcium plays an important role in strengthening teeth, supporting jawbone and gum health, and maintaining overall well-being. However, it works best as part of a comprehensive approach to oral health. Combine a balanced diet with consistent brushing, daily flossing, and routine dental visits for the best results!
About the Practice
Our preventive care technology includes intraoral and extraoral cameras so patients can see real-time images to better understand the state of their oral health. Checkups also include comprehensive oral cancer screenings and thorough cleanings. If it’s been 6 months since your last routine visit to the dentist, you can book your next one through our website or by calling our Whitinsville office at (508) 234-8107.