October is recognized as National Dental Hygiene Month. In this article, we take a look at five supplements that can serve as worthwhile complements to sound dental hygiene practices, by helping preserve the strength and longevity of your teeth.
Dental Hygiene Is Essential
The month of October is recognized as National Dental Hygiene Month by the American Dental Hygienists’ Association. This serves as a healthful reminder to take care of your teeth! Below, you will read about five of the most ideal supplements that contribute to strong teeth. But first, we ought to remind our readers what the essentials are when it comes to dental hygiene.
Oral hygiene practices are the first and most essential line of defense against tooth decay. They prevent cavities, which are expensive to repair and are entirely avoidable. They also prevent gum disease, halitosis, and other forms of oral disease. These are the essential practices of short- and long-term dental health.
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day on all sides to sweep away plaque and bacteria.
- Floss daily, in order to remove plaque from between your teeth.
- Use antibacterial mouthwash daily.
- Visit your dentist regularly, ideally every 6 months.
- Avoid smoking and tobacco products, as these are a leading cause of periodontal disease.
Supplements Aimed at Dental Health
No supplement is a replacement for the essential practices of dental hygiene mentioned here. However, particular nutrients and other healthful substances in supplement form provide physiological benefits that can sustain the toughness and longevity of your teeth. Here are five of the best supplements for healthy teeth:
Vitamin C is crucial for the longevity of your teeth. This is primarily because a deficiency in vitamin C can cause problems with the teeth, including gingivitis and even tooth loss. Similarly, vitamin C is also necessary to prevent gum disease. An ascorbic acid, or vitamin C, supplement is recommended for the preservation of strong teeth.
Calcium is a crucial mineral, and its relation to sustaining strong teeth is no surprise. Calcium is essential for both the formation and maintenance of strong bones, and that absolutely includes your teeth. Taking a calcium supplement is one of the easiest and most direct ways to get plenty of this essential mineral and keep your teeth healthy in the long term.
Magnesium is a mineral that contributes to a multitude of bodily functions. Among them is the formation of teeth and bones, as well as the absorption of calcium. It is important to get plenty of this mineral; Magnesium deficiency is a common factor in the development of periodontal disease.
Phosphorus is another crucial mineral, as it makes up roughly 1% of a person’s body weight. As for your teeth, phosphorus is beneficial because it actually works with calcium to keep teeth strong, and also contributes to the structural formation of enamel. It is also beneficial simply because it enhances the absorption of calcium.
Potassium is the fourth mineral and last supplement we mention here. Potassium is important because it works with other minerals to support the integrity of your teeth. Alongside magnesium, potassium helps prevent blood from becoming too acidic, which is important because acidic blood can stymie the benefits that calcium provides to teeth. Potassium also contributes to the maintenance of bone density.
Because of this month’s designation, October is as good a time as any to take account of your dental health. Consider these five extremely beneficial supplements for their ability to contribute to dental strength and longevity. It is recommended that you talk to your healthcare provider before taking a supplement for the first time.