Vitamin C, Calcium, and Oral Health

Eating right has its benefits. And, maintaining a diet high in Vitamin C and Calcium can really stretch those benefits, especially when it comes to your oral health. We’ve put together a list of foods rich in these nutrients so you can continue to keep a healthy diet without doing all the legwork on your own.

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that works with your body to nurture and maintain healthier gums. The nutrient aids with collagen synthesis, which is a vital process in developing better gums and reversing gingivitis when it’s still in its early stages. Additionally, toothpastes and mouthwashes formulated with Vitamin C are an easy way to treat gum disease at the source. However, Vitamin C doesn’t last in the body long, so consistently consuming the nutrient every day can vastly improve your overall health.

Foods that are packed with Vitamin C include:

• Kiwi
• Papaya
• Kale
• Oranges
• Peppers
• Guava
• Sweet Potato
• Lychees
• Brussel Sprouts
• Cauliflower
• Strawberries
• Cabbage
• Broccoli

Fruit rolls and raisins are also a good source of Vitamin C. However, most contain sugar and the sticky consistency of these foods can lead to tooth decay. An can help ensure a more comprehensive, tooth-by-tooth clean to protect against cavities. Make sure to floss in between teeth to remove any leftover sugars, food particles, and plaque.

Vitamin C is known for its regenerative properties. It can help with receding gums, bleeding gums, and a sensitive gum line. However, maintaining a good oral care routine of brushing and flossing twice daily is a necessity for healthy gums. Adding a simple rinse like Crest Gum Care Mouthwash to your routine will also help remove plaque bacteria and reduce early signs of gum disease. If your gum disease persists and has matured, speak with your dentist right away to learn about other treatment options.

One of the most prevalent minerals in your body, Calcium aids with bone and teeth development. In addition, Calcium has been proven to be a necessary nutrient in gum health. Simply put, for your teeth to be strong, your gum line must be strong. Calcium also strengthens your jaw bone and your enamel, the outer layer of your teeth that helps keep stains at a minimum and teeth more resilient.

Calcium is produced naturally in the body; however, the mineral is depleted by bacteria and acids over time. Maintaining a diet high in calcium helps boost your body’s natural production of the nutrient as it’s stored directly within your teeth and bones.

Foods rich in Calcium include:

• Yogurt
• Cheese
• Chia Seeds
• Beans and Lentils
• Salmon
• Almonds
• Collard greens
• Kale
• Spinach
• Rhubarb
• Tofu
• Figs
• Milk

In order for teeth to stay resilient and keep stains at bay, a routine of brushing and flossing twice a day must be followed. Calcium intake can help reverse weakened enamel and jaw bones, but brushing with an enamel-strengthening toothpaste can provide even quicker results when used in conjunction. Crest 3D White Whitening Therapy Enamel Care Toothpaste works hard to revitalize your enamel as it gently lifts surface stains.

A healthy diet can do wonders for your oral health, and upping your nutrient intake can significantly improve your smile. Vitamin C and Calcium are both key nutrients that work with your body to help promote healthier teeth and gums. Incorporating both nutrients into your daily routine can boost enamel repair, gum development, and jawbone strength for a more resilient smile.