Brushing and cleaning between your teeth every day is only part of good oral hygiene. If you want strong healthy teeth, you also need to pay attention to the foods you eat.
Calcium, Vitamin D and phosphorus work together to play a vital role in the formation and maintenance of healthy teeth and gums.
For strong bones and teeth, you should consume 1,000-2,000 mg. of calcium daily. When the body lacks sufficient calcium, it pulls it from bones and teeth. A calcium deficiency can increase the risk for dental problems including irritated gums, brittle teeth and tooth decay. These problems can lead to periodontal disease.
According to the Journal of Periodontology, individuals with a calcium intake of less than 500 mg, or about half the recommended dietary allowance, were almost twice as likely to have periodontitis, or gum disease.
Besides taking supplements to support bone strength, you can add calcium-rich foods to your diet.
If you don’t like milk or are lactose-intolerant, getting enough calcium can be more difficult. Look for calcium-fortified foods and drinks.