A Guide to the Minerals in Your Teeth

Have you ever wondered what makes your teeth so strong? Most of us take our oral health for granted, trusting that good oral care will keep decay and toothache at bay. However, many people fail to realize the importance of certain minerals in our teeth that help prevent cavities and maintain precious enamel.

So, how can you hold on to the minerals so fundamental to dental health? To help you learn the facts about minerals in teeth, we have put together a quick guide below. 

What Minerals Are in Teeth and What Functions Do They Serve?

Calcium is the foundational mineral on which healthy teeth and bones are built, helping to harden enamel and provide structural support to ensure your body stays strong. People with calcium deficiency often find that their tooth sockets start to widen and wear away, leading to loosened teeth. Late-stage symptoms of deficiency include tooth decay and loss – an outcome you’re probably very keen to avoid! 

Most people immediately turn to milk as the best way to maintain a high intake of calcium. While dairy products are highly marketed for this, you can fulfill your nutritional needs consuming calcium-rich vegetables such as broccoli and leafy greens and using natural supplements.

Magnesium works to harden tooth enamel and prevent loss of bone density. Rich sources of magnesium include nuts, dark green vegetables, rye, brown rice, and other whole grains. It is worth noting that an overconsumption of magnesium can cause unpleasant digestive symptoms such as diarrhea and abdominal pain. In this way, it is important to spread your consumption of these foods evenly throughout the day. 

Phosphorus is found in foods such as oily fish, beef, cheese, lentils, soybeans, and other plant-based foods. It works alongside calcium to support bones and teeth and is particularly important for maintaining a strong jaw.

Potassium improves the mineral density of bones and works alongside magnesium to prevent blood acidification. If your blood becomes too acidic, you may start to lose calcium from your teeth and bones. Rich sources of potassium include tomatoes, bananas, avocados, and potatoes.  

Can You Replenish the Minerals in Your Teeth?

With a few lifestyle changes and the proper dental care products, it is possible to replenish the minerals in your teeth. According to a recent scientific literature review, it has become clear that teeth contain natural repair mechanisms designed to reverse demineralization. What’s more, many remineralization techniques and treatments have produced very positive results in recent years.  

Before you go about remineralizing your teeth, you must understand what aspects of your lifestyle may be contributing to demineralization. Common culprits include:

• Sugar: It probably goes without saying that high sugar intake can lead to poor oral health outcomes. However, we think it is worth mentioning that sugar is highly acidic and one of the most common causes of demineralization. Are you tempted to pick up a can of soda? Try to stick to a trusty glass of water instead!
• Fruits and fruit juice: While a cool glass of orange juice may look innocent, fruit acids can easily strip away calcium and tooth enamel. Try to minimize your consumption of acidic fruits such as oranges and grapefruits and avoid juices altogether. Low-acid fruits include mangoes, watermelons, pears, and bananas.
• Dairy: Okay, so dairy can be a vital source of calcium. However, the lactose present in traditional milk products can make your mouth more acidic and contribute to enamel loss! The solution? Drink milk in moderation and consume calcium from a variety of sources.
• Dry mouth: Do your lips and teeth often feel drier than the Sahara Desert? You may not be producing enough saliva. Saliva is fundamental for preventing cavities and supporting remineralization, so you must address your dry mouth by drinking plenty of water and talking to your dentist if necessary. 

How to Restore Lost Minerals

So, now you know how to prevent rapid demineralization of the teeth, how can you restore minerals already lost and prevent age-related demineralization? Here are a few top tips: 

• Consume plenty of calcium: Beyond dairy products, there is plenty of calcium in other foods, including almonds, leafy vegetables, sardines, salmon, and more. You may wish to consider calcium supplements if you are on a restricted diet. 
• Chew sugar-free gum: Chewing gum can help remove plaque and sugar from teeth while boosting saliva production. As such, it could help to reduce acid levels in your mouth and prevent mineral loss. The best time to chew gum is just after a meal. 
• Brush your teeth: Apologies for stating the obvious, but brushing your teeth at least twice a day is vital for preventing cavities and removing bacteria that can contribute to demineralization. We recommend using a brand that actively promotes remineralization, such as Wellnesse.  A good toothbrush is important as well!
• Ensure you’re getting enough vitamin D: Vitamin D is vital for calcium absorption, so it is important that you maintain high levels via safe sun exposure and supplements (if needed). 
• Consume probiotics: Probiotics contain friendly bacteria that could balance out pH levels in your mouth and contribute to remineralization. Look out for probiotic products containing bifidobacterium, salivarius, reuteri, or rhamnosus. Most people consume probiotics via yogurt products or supplements. 

Can Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste Support Your Oral Health?

Yes!

If you are searching for a natural and reliable way to strengthen, remineralize, and whiten your teeth, look no further than our Wellnesse toothpaste. This cruelty-free mineralization solution uses hydroxyapatite and green tea leaf extract in place of fluoride, helping to fight tooth decay while avoiding harsh chemicals.

Give it a try today! 

Resources:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6749882/

https://www.bones.nih.gov/health-info/bone/bone-health/nutrition/calcium-and-vitamin-d-important-every-age