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Good oral health is the cornerstone of overall health and well-being, and vitamins and minerals are essential to maintaining it. Vitamins and minerals play a vital role in preventing and reversing oral diseases, from cavities to gum disease.

Vitamin D

Getting enough vitamin D is important for strong bones and teeth, but taking too much can cause damage to the kidneys. Always check with your doctor before taking supplements.

Many foods contain vitamin D, including salmon, tuna, egg yolks, fortified milk, and more. Your body can also make it from the sun's ultraviolet rays. However, the vitamin is fat-soluble, and your body has a hard time absorbing it from food alone. A supplement may be necessary to ensure you're getting enough.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is another essential vitamin for healthy teeth and gums because it promotes tissue renewal, which can help to reduce the appearance of cavities. It also helps maintain enamel strength by protecting teeth from decay-causing bacteria. Like vitamin B-12, vitamin C can be found in citrus fruits and many vegetables such as broccoli and kale. It can also be consumed in supplement form if necessary.

Calcium

A mineral that is found naturally in foods, calcium helps develop strong bones and teeth. It is needed to help the body absorb other vitamins and minerals like phosphorus and magnesium that support oral health. These minerals, along with vitamins A and C, also help strengthen gums and prevent periodontal disease. Sources include milk and other dairy products, spinach, kale, almonds, and fish.

Phosphorus

Calcium promotes healthy tooth enamel, but phosphorus performs a different duty within the mouth. This mineral supports the strength of bones and teeth, so the body can function as it should. It can also work in conjunction with vitamin D to keep bones strong and healthy. A deficiency in phosphorous can cause weakened bones and teeth, which may lead to tooth loss. Some signs that your phosphorous levels may be low include pain while chewing, loose teeth, and loss of bone tissue in your jaw.

Magnesium

Eating foods high in magnesium can help strengthen your teeth and gum line. This essential mineral is found in nuts and grains, as well as vegetables like spinach and Swiss chard. Not getting enough of this nutrient can lead to gum disease. An added bonus to eating more magnesium-rich foods is that they can also help prevent heart disease and diabetes. More dietary magnesium also promotes bone strength. There are also topical magnesium applications available that can be applied directly to the gums to promote healing after oral surgery or periodontal treatment. 

Zinc

Even on a molecular level, zinc is involved with maintaining healthy gum tissues. For example, it's involved in wound healing as well as tissue development and repair. Also, zinc helps boost your immune system. So, in addition to having benefits for your oral health, this mineral also boosts your overall wellness. Healthy gums and a strong immune system are both important for a healthy smile!

By eating a balanced diet that includes plenty of vitamins and minerals, you can help ensure healthy teeth and gums. If you feel that you are not getting enough vitamins and minerals in your diet, consider taking a multivitamin or mineral supplement daily. It is important to speak to your healthcare provider before taking any supplements to make sure they are right for you.

Please reach out to our dental practice in Mission Viejo, CA, to have a consultation with our dentist, Dr. Lee. You can call us at (949) 380-0315 or schedule an online consultation, and we'll guide you further.