A strong oral routine is an essential requirement for strong teeth and gums. However, what is equally important as what you feed your mouth. Our mouths go through a lot of activity, and what we feed is important to ensure it remains strong.
We’re talking about teeth, gums, tissue, and bone by mouth. Combined, this can keep your smile strong for longer. However, what are those vitamins for strong teeth and gums and what should be avoided?
Which Properties Damage Your Teeth?
Have you ever wondered whether your favourite foods damage your teeth? Well, the answer is yes. However, this depends on the amount you consume in combination with your dental health.
Properties such as sugars, carbohydrates and acids are bad for your teeth. Bacteria feed on foods containing these properties, which release acids to attack tooth enamel. Tooth enamel is the protective outer coating of your teeth. When the enamel is damaged, it cannot be repaired by the dentist.
Avoid the following foods within your diet:
- Refined carbohydrates such as bread, chips, french fries and soft white rolls
- Dried fruits such as raisins and apricots
- Acidic foods such as citrus and lemon
- Carbonated soft drinks such as Coke, Fanta and lemonade and other sports drinks
- Popcorn and peanut butter
Which Are The Vitamins For Strong Teeth and Gums?
To keep your teeth and gums strong, here are five vitamins that you should incorporate into your daily meals:
Vitamin C
If you see bruised and bleeding gums, this is a sign that your vitamin C levels are low. This means not eating fruit and vegetables that contain minerals. The underlying tissue beneath the gums needs to be kept healthy and strong as they help to hold your teeth firmly in place. Therefore, you need to ensure that you incorporate healthy choices in your diet to maintain strong gums.
Here are some more popular food choices that contain vitamin C:
- Strawberries
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Cauliflower
- Grapefruit
- Lemon
Calcium
The enamel is the hardest substance in the body, and it requires calcium to keep your teeth strong. You may have heard something known as calcium deficiency, which is a sign that your teeth aren’t receiving enough calcium. Without calcium, your teeth are vulnerable to cavities, also known as remineralisation. Remineralisation also means that your enamel isn’t getting enough nutrients to prevent cavities.
Here are some popular food choices that contain calcium:
- Dairy foods (cheese, yoghurt and milk)
- Broccoli
- Kale
- Bok Choy
- Hazelnuts
- Almonds
- Walnuts
Phosphorous
Phosphorous is equally as important as calcium to maintain strong teeth and bones. Calcium and phosphorous depend on each other to ensure to firmly keep your teeth in place. Without strong bone support, your teeth will begin to lose their grip and eventually fall out.
Phosphorous can be gained from plant foods such as nuts and seeds. You can also gain phosphorous from lentils, fish and eggs.
Vitamin A
Do you see imperfections in your teeth? Such as rough or jagged edges? This may be an indication that you’re not getting enough Vitamin A. A lack of Vitamin A is also linked to enamel demineralisation, gum disease and a lack of saliva. Saliva helps you to digest your food, and a dry mouth can lead to dental plaque build up as food remains would remain inside your mouth.
Here are some popular food choices that contain Vitamin A:
- Sweet potatoes
- Oranges
- Carrots
- Eggs
- Fish
Vitamin D
Vitamin D can be obtained from sunlight, but low levels of Vitamin D can impact your gums’ enamel and health. Weak enamel can lead to cavities and exposure to damage to your teeth. When the enamel is exposed to harmful bacteria, you’re introducing initial signs of tooth decay. To keep your enamel strong and your smile protected, consume more Vitamin D.
Here are some popular food choices that contain Vitamin D:
- Broccoli
- Strawberries
- Tomatoes
- Salmon
- Fish
- Mackeral
Take Your Vitamins For Strong Teeth And Gums…
A healthy diet should contain the proposed food and drink so that your teeth and gums can be replenished with the right nutrients for a strong smile. You may also consider taking supplements that contain these nutrients. Either way, it is important that you stock up every day and eat right.
If you are seeking support with your dental health? Consult our dentist in Woden for an appointment today.