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Many foods contain vitamins and other nutrients that help keep teeth and gums strong and healthy. However, it isn't always easy to eat the recommended daily allowance of vitamins. That's where vitamins for teeth and gums come in.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is crucial for the proper absorption of calcium in the body. Without sufficient vitamin D levels, the body cannot absorb enough calcium to maintain healthy teeth and bones. While sunlight exposure is the primary source of this vitamin, it can also be found in some foods, such as egg yolks, fish, and liver. Talk to your dentist or doctor about the best way to take a supplement that is right for you.

Vitamin C

Everyone needs vitamin C, but did you know that it's one of the best vitamins for teeth and gums? It's required for producing collagen – an important protein found in connective tissues like your gums! Vitamin C has antioxidant properties, which may help ward off certain oral diseases. It's also essential for the production of the antibiotic substance saliva.

While your body can manufacture its own supply of vitamin C, this nutrient is quickly flushed out of your system when you consume things like orange juice or citrus fruits. That's why it's important to include plenty of fruits and vegetables in your diet. You can also drink fresh vegetable juice daily for a quicker dose of vitamin C.

In addition to strengthening your gums, vitamin C is also important for producing strong bones. Talk to your dentist for more dietary recommendations to improve your oral health! 

Calcium

Fluoride, found in water and toothpaste, helps keep the enamel strong and healthy. For patients with dry mouth, fluoride can strengthen the teeth and help remineralize weakened areas in the mouth. Patients who have decay or gum recession can also benefit from fluoride because it's able to block acid from attacking the teeth and causing further damage.

Cavities are the result of tooth decay that occurs when plaque sticks on your tooth too long and becomes acidic. This can eat away at the tooth enamel and lead to the formation of cavities. Because calcium helps build your teeth's structure and keep them strong, it's essential to have enough in your system to avoid tooth decay.

Potassium

Your tooth enamel is the hardest substance in your body, but it's so susceptible to damage that even something as harmless as eating a banana can be enough to chip it. Like other minerals and nutrients, potassium can help strengthen your teeth and counteract the effects of acidic foods. Eating a balanced diet is one of the best ways to get enough of this nutrient.

If you're interested to learn more, call our dentist today to schedule a consultation. You can call us at (209) 554-1700 or visit our clinic located at 1317 Oakdale Rd Suite 310, Modesto, California 95355.