(215) 677-2401
Adopting a healthy diet is just one of the many ways to obtain good oral health. Leafy greens, fresh fruits and vegetables, and lean proteins can benefit both your teeth and gums but so can dairy products, like milk, cheese, yogurt, and even some fish. Since these foods contain calcium, you may wonder what makes it so special that it should be a key element in your diet. Keep reading to find out the truth about this essential mineral and how much you should be getting every day.
Calcium & Healthy Smiles: How Do They Connect?
You’ve probably heard doctors say that one of the most effective ways to prevent osteoporosis is by making sure you are ingesting enough calcium. Found in countless beverages and food options, it is an important mineral that is quite abundant within the human body.
Your bones and teeth contain almost all (99%) of the calcium, as it is highly effective in helping to strengthen and support these areas.
As it pertains to your pearly whites, calcium works to harden the enamel, which is the topmost layer of your teeth. This allows them to fight off enamel erosion and cavities so that you can avoid restorative treatment, like dental fillings and crowns.
How Much Calcium is Necessary for Better Oral Health?
According to the National Institutes of Health, 1,000 milligrams of calcium should be consumed each day among adults between the ages of 19 and 50.
Since this mineral cannot be produced on its own, you must find foods or beverages you can consume or supplements you can take.
Changes in bone density and an increased risk of dental decay often occur as you get older, so it’s important to incorporate plenty of calcium into your diet as early as you can so that you set your smile up for success in the future.
Which Calcium-Rich Foods and Beverages Should You Consume?
Whether you lack sufficient calcium to keep your teeth and bones healthy or are looking for additional options to incorporate into your diet, here are some foods and beverages to consider:
- Milk
- Yogurt
- Cheese
- Canned Fish
- Dark Leafy Greens, like collard greens, kale, or spinach
- Edamame
- White or Navy Beans
- Almonds
- Tofu
- Orange Juice
It is recommended that you spread out your calcium intake throughout the day as opposed to trying to ingest it all at once. This will allow your body to properly absorb the minerals so that you can reap the greatest benefits when it comes to your oral and overall health.
About the Practice
Dentex Dental Group consists of four highly skilled and patient-focused dentists who believe in personalizing each person’s visit by providing exceptional customer service and care. With a strong focus on prevention, we not only offer services that are designed to spot problems early on, but we also provide our patients with useful insight and at-home solutions to keep teeth and gums healthy between appointments. If you want to give your smile the best chance to thrive, visit our website or call (215) 677-3904 to make an appointment or speak to a member of our team.