The type of food and liquids they consume daily can have long-term effects in addition to brushing and flossing being an essential for our children’s overall oral health. To ensure your little ones will have healthy teeth and gums to last a lifetime, consuming a balanced diet of foods rich in vitamins and minerals will help. Today, we at Smile Reef would like to discuss the minerals and vitamins important for your kid’s teeth.
Vitamins & Minerals are Important to Child’s Teeth
Calcium. The main mineral that makes up our teeth and supporting jawbones is calcium. Our bodies take the calcium it needs from our bones when we don’t consume enough of this mineral, which can weaken them. The function of the brain, organs, and skeletal muscles is also maintained. Cheese, milk, and yogurt are the main sources of calcium. Broccoli, kale, most grains, fish with soft bones, fruit juices, and soy and rice beverages are other foods that provide calcium.
Vitamin A. Both your eyes and mouth benefit from Vitamin A. Like your mucous membranes and gums, this vitamin forms and maintains tissues. To help keep saliva flowing, which naturally cleans teeth of damaging acids and prevents dry mouth is another function of vitamin A. Found in sweet potatoes, orange fruits, kale, fish, dairy, chicken, meat, spinach, collard greens, and egg yolk is Vitamin A.
Vitamin C. For keeping the connective tissues of your gums strong, Vitamin C is essential. The tissues holding your teeth securely in place can weaken, gums can bleed, teeth can become loose, and the risk for gum disease increases without enough of it. Your children should be encouraged to eat spinach, berries, kiwifruit, citrus fruits, and sweet potatoes.
Vitamin D. The body absorb calcium and strengthens the teeth with Vitamin D. It also reduces the risk of bone fractures in addition to making our teeth and bones stronger. Our bodies can resist some types of disease since Vitamin D also helps keep the immune system functioning normally. It can also be found in fatty fish, canned tuna, and portobello mushrooms though bodies naturally make vitamin D when exposed to sunlight. Foods and drinks that have been fortified with vitamin D, such as orange juice, milk, and some cereals can also be used.
Iron. Important for maintaining healthy levels of red blood cells is iron. Iron helps defend against infection and disease and your body’s immune system to function normally. Your body’s immune system is weakened and your chance of developing oral infections and gum disease increase when iron levels are low. By giving them seafood, eggs, red meat, cereals, bread, and green leafy vegetables, keep your child’s immune system up and running to its full potential.
Phosphorus. Large amounts of phosphorus are contained in your body, and most of it is found in your teeth. To protect and rebuild your tooth enamel it works with calcium. Important for the maintenance and repair of your body tissues and teeth is replenishing phosphorous. Present in many protein-rich foods, like meats, eggs, legumes, nuts, and dairy is phosphorous.
Pediatric Dentistry
Some children can be super picky eaters and might benefit from taking vitamin supplements, while a healthy diet can provide your child with enough vitamins and minerals they need. Talk to their pediatrician and ask them about the best recommended multi-vitamin supplement if your child has low levels of one or more than one vitamin or mineral. In addition to a healthy diet, be sure to include regular dental visits and daily oral health. For pediatric dentistry in the Las Vegas Valley, contact Smile Reef today and let us assist you!