How Much Calcium Do You Really Need?

The Importance of Calcium and Maintaining a Healthy Mouth

What Does Calcium Have to Do With Dental Health?

When people think of calcium, it’s likely they are thinking of the health benefits it provides for your skin and bones. But what most seem to forget is that calcium is also vital for maintaining good dental health. In fact, the body stores more than 99% of calcium deposits in your teeth and bones, including the jawbone. Calcium can help prevent osteoporosis, which is common in women over the age of 50.

Calcium deficiency can lead to a number of troubling health concerns, including tooth loss or decay. Dr. Beaufils advises all his patients to follow the recommended daily dosage of calcium carefully, as it varies depending on your age and gender.

How Much Calcium Do I Need?

Calcium is a vital nutrient for everyone, but the amount required to ensure strong skin, bones, and overall good general health will depend on your sex and your age. This is the recommended daily dosage as published by the National Institute of Health. Calcium needs the vitamin D in your body in order for it to be absorbed, so the two nutrients go hand in hand. This is why it is important to ensure you are getting the suggested amount of both minerals daily.

Keep in mind that too much calcium can sometimes be a bad thing, also. For example, an extreme increase in calcium can lead to constipation or even kidney stones in adults. Additionally, absorbing too much calcium can lead to plaque build-up on the teeth. If not properly cleaned and maintained, this can lead to frightening dental situations, such as irritated gums, weakened enamel, or even more serious conditions such as periodontitis or infections. Keep track of how much calcium you are ingesting and keep up with a thorough dental hygiene routine, including regular bi-yearly teeth cleanings.

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Where is Calcium Found?

The common source of calcium for most families is through dairy products like milk, cheese, or yogurt. However, for patients who are lactose intolerant or simply don’t incorporate much dairy into their diet, there are other food options that are rich in calcium. Those options include:

• Leafy green veggies, like kale, broccoli, and Chinese cabbage
• Fish with soft bones, like salmon and canned sardines
• Foods that have calcium added to them, like certain breakfast cereals, soymilks, snacks, and drinks. Be sure to shake any liquids well as calcium has a tendency to settle!
• Adding a few scoops of powdered milk to your meals. A tablespoon contains about 50 mg of calcium

Patients who are not getting enough calcium should talk to their primary health care provider to discuss their options for increasing their intake. A change in diet may be necessary, or supplements may be recommended.

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Keep That Smile Beautiful

If you are afraid you may have a calcium deficiency that is affecting your dental health, don’t hesitate to contact Beaufils Dental in Cooper City today! Our dedicated staff is ready and able to deliver top-quality dental services to all of our patients and are even available after hours to help you handle any dental emergency you may be experiencing. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Beaufils or one of our expert team members, call us at 954-252-1390.