Do Healthy Teeth Really Need Dairy?

The old adage is that “milk and dairy are necessary for strong teeth and bones.” While that is true –milk and dairy both greatly help strengthen teeth and bones – the whole truth isn’t so simple.

It’s All about What’s on the Inside 

Milk and dairy products are incredibly rich in calcium, magnesium and vitamin D, essential building blocks needed to promote strong teeth and bones. But, milk and dairy products aren’t the only sources of those mouth-healthy vitamins and minerals.

Calcium 

Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the human body, and plays a critical role in muscle building, improving blood vessel health, and nourishing the nervous system. Calcium is essential for strong bones and teeth, and 99% of your body’s calcium is actually stored in your bones and teeth! Needless to say, it’s vital that you get enough calcium everyday, and it doesn’t have to come from a dairy product.

Calcium can be found in salmon, broccoli, dark leafy greens, sesame seeds, almonds, oranges, and calcium-fortified cereal.

Magnesium 

Magnesium helps the body absorb calcium, which is critical to building strong teeth and tooth enamel. In fact, magnesium converts vitamin D into its active form so that calcium can be absorbed into the body.

You can find magnesium in nuts, whole grains, beans, seeds and dark leafy vegetables. 

Vitamin D 

Vitamin D is often overlooked, but it plays a huge role in promoting tooth and bone healthVitamin D acts as a communicator, and signals the intestines to absorb calcium into the bloodstream. Without adequate vitamin D, the healthy power of calcium is severely diminished. Adequate vitamin D – in addition to calcium – make bones and teeth denser and far stronger, which helps prevent fractures and cracks.

You can find vitamin D in fatty fish like tuna and salmon, orange juice, egg yolks, and soymilk and almond milk.

Mouth Healthy Foods are Everywhere! 

A rich, nutritional diet is critical to a healthy mouth and body, but finding nutritious can be difficult on your own! Talk to us about mouth healthy dietary options for your family. We will help you identify foods that taste good, and improve their oral health.