Daily hygiene and check-ups at the dentist are the foundation of healthy teeth and gums. However, we must not forget about vitamins and minerals, which are equally important. Only some of these are produced by our own body, the others must be supplied to the body through a healthy diet and supplementation.
In a healthy body, healthy teeth
It is said that we are what we eat. Does this also apply to teeth? Absolutely. A healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals is very important for their condition. In case of their deficiency, the risk of inflammation and gum disease, oral ulcers and even cavities increases. What ingredients should not be missing from our diet?
- Calcium, vitamin D, phosphorus and vitamin C are key. These sources should not be missing from our plates if we want healthy teeth and gums. This is extremely important in adults, but especially in children, whose bodies are developing rapidly. For example, bone structures are formed around the age of 18, so the more vitamins we provide during this period along with a healthy, varied diet, the stronger our teeth will be. Sweets and fast food, so popular with young and old alike, are unfortunately devoid of nutrients. Hence the increased susceptibility to dental problems, even in childhood - says dr stom. Dorota Stankowska, author of the guide "Be smart at the dentist".
What is the role of vitamins and minerals in oral health?
Calcium plays an important role in the formation of bone structures and therefore also teeth. It is what makes them healthy and strong. Calcium also prevents osteoporosis, which can lead to bone fractures and weakened bone tissue around the teeth. - Calcium circulates in small amounts in our bloodstream and is carefully regulated by the body. If we do not provide it in adequate amounts through our diet, the body will make up for these deficiencies by taking it like a leech from our bones, explains the expert. The best sources of calcium are dairy products such as cheese, yoghurt, brown rice, beans, green leafy vegetables like cabbage or broccoli, salmon, sardines and oranges, among others. Phosphorus is essential in the diet for the full effects of calcium. This is particularly important for the menus of children who are developing rapidly.
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The best sources of phosphorus are cereals, wheat germ, soya beans, almonds, nuts, poultry, fish, eggs, tomatoes, cucumbers, grapes and citrus fruit. Vitamin D is equally important because it regulates the balance of calcium and phosphorus in the blood, making them better absorbed and assimilated by the body, which translates into strong teeth. Vitamin D also has a positive effect on periodontal tissues. Studies show that people whose diets are rich in vitamin D are least likely to suffer from gum inflammation and periodontitis.
The best sources of vitamin D are sunlight, but vitamin D can also be found in milk, cheese, eggs, certain cereals and fatty fish such as sardines, cod and tuna.
