Vitamins for Your Dental Health
What you eat can have profound consequences on your teeth. Eating a diet with too many simple carbohydrates, sugars, juices and soft or energy drinks can leave your teeth and gums vulnerable to dental diseases. However, eating the right combination of nutrients can make your teeth stronger and more resilient. Hereís what you need to know before your next professional dental cleaning and checkup.
Vitamin C, which can be found in citrus fruits, strawberries, tomatoes and leafy green vegetables, is essential for gum health. Itís a powerful antioxidant that strengthens the immune system, reduces bacteria levels and protects the gums. By getting more vitamin C in your diet, you can improve your overall health and your dental health.
Another nutrient essential to good dental health is vitamin D. Vitamin D is associated with strong, healthy bones, but it can also fight the inflammation that is a hallmark of gum disease. Get more vitamin D in your diet by enjoying fatty fish, milk and fortified beverages. Your body can also make vitamin D: Simply spend 15 minutes outdoors a few times a week so that your skin can soak up some sunshine.
Round out your daily dental vitamin regimen with some vitamin E. Vitamin E has antioxidant properties that help it fight against periodontal disease and promote gum health. Instead of taking pills, try eating more nuts and peanut butter or sprinkling wheat germ over your favorite yogurt or on top of a salad.
Contact us today to learn more or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Bijan Afar DDS, Los Angeles dentist.