Calcium and Your Oral Health

Calcium helps maintain healthy teeth and gums. In the human body, it's mostly present on bones and teeth. You can also derive it from certain foods.

The body loses and rebuilds the mineral in a natural cycle. Calcium breaks down when you use your bones and teeth and gets replenished too. However, if the body loses it too fast, a person may experience calcium deficiency.

Your body may pull excess calcium from your teeth, which can then cause the latter to weaken.

Signs of a Deficiency

It’s hard to determine through visual examination whether you lack calcium. Here are some signs that you can monitor:

• Being more prone to cavities
• Teeth chip or break easily
• Muscle aches and cramps
• Osteoporosis or bone breakage
• Extreme fatigue
• Depression

If you feel you’re experiencing these symptoms, you can help your body regain its supply. You can help protect your teeth and bones.

How Much Calcium Do the Teeth Need?

The amount needed depends on a person’s age and gender. Children and pregnant women, for instance, will need more.

You can find out more about your body’s specific calcium needs with the help of your doctor. Consult with your dentist, too, to see the condition of your teeth and gums.

Don’t take supplements without discussing your situation with health care practitioners.

How to Increase Intake

Research suggests that calcium deficiency can lead to more serious cases of periodontal disease. Osteoporosis, a condition that leaves the bones brittle, can also affect the jaw bone and lead to tooth loss.

You can increase your calcium supply by consuming calcium-rich food. Milk, yogurt, cheese, brown rice, and green leafy vegetables are only some examples of food that are high in calcium.

It also helps to increase your phosphorus intake as this mineral helps the body absorb calcium better. Phosphorus can be found in cereals, poultry, fish, egg, citrus fruits, and nuts among many others.

To further strengthen the teeth' enamel, use a remineralizing toothpaste. Avoid sugary and starchy food, too, as they turn into acids that beat down the enamel. Don’t forget your routine dental cleanings and checkups. Your dentist can detect potential dental issues early on, and help stop them before they progress.

Calcium is only one of the many minerals that help the teeth and gums stay strong. Overall, a proper diet and good oral hygiene habits are your best regimen for a healthy smile.