11 Best Vitamins for Teeth and Gums Based on Science
You can floss and brush and go to the dentist all you want, but your oral health will still be compromised unless you consume essential minerals and vitamins for teeth and gums.
These minerals and vitamins ensure you are getting the right nutrients to ensure optimal oral health. So, if you are ready to take your oral health to the next level, you have come to the right place.
We have created a complete guide for you with the eleven best vitamins for teeth and gums to keep your teeth healthy and strong.
Reasons to Take Vitamins for Teeth and Gums
Digestion begins at the mouth. This means that if your oral health is compromised, you will also have gut health issues.
According to the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, chewing is important to extract nutrients from your food.
If you don't do this right, you will have vitamin deficiencies that can lead to more oral health problems. Here are the top reasons we recommend taking vitamins for teeth and gums:
· Ensures that you are taking all your nutrients
· Improves oral and gut health
· Essential for beginning the digestion process accurately
· Guarantees healthy teeth
We also recommend you practice good oral hygiene habits to promote even better health. All of this combined will guarantee that your oral health is optimal.
The 11 Best Vitamins for Teeth and Gums to Start Taking
Now that you understand the reasons to take vitamins for teeth and gums, selecting the right vitamins for teeth and gums is also important. There are some of the most important vitamins you must include in your routine, which include the following:
1. Vitamin D – Best for Healthy Teeth and Bones
Sources of Vitamin D: Red meat, oily fish, egg yolks, and Vitamin D-fortified dairy products
There is ample research on how important Vitamin D is for overall health. On the other hand, Vitamin D deficiencies can also lead to various oral health issues, such as gum disease, cavities, gum inflammation, and more.
The reason for this is that this vitamin ensures tooth mineralization. While you can purchase Vitamin D supplements, you can also get this vitamin from natural sources.
For example, oily fish such as herring, mackerel, salmon, and others have Vitamin D. You can also take in the sunlight for a few minutes a day to guarantee that you are fulfilling your Vitamin D intake.
2. Calcium – Best for Strengthening Teeth Enamel
Sources: Leafy greens, cheese, yogurt, milk, and tofu
If you want strong teeth, calcium is one of the best vitamins for teeth and gums. It strengthens the teeth enamel, which protects your teeth against cavities and other problems.
The National Institute of Health considers calcium one of the body's most important minerals. Dairy products are rich in calcium, but if you are lactose intolerant, you can also fulfill your calcium needs through leafy greens.
On the other hand, nuts such as sunflower seeds and almonds are also rich in this mineral. If you don’t want to consume these, then you can opt for calcium supplements, which are easily available everywhere.
3. Vitamin C – Best for Healthy and Strong Gums
Sources: Citrus fruits, kiwi, broccoli, strawberries, and tomatoes
Vitamin C is responsible for the development and maintenance of the connective tissues in your gums. If you constantly have bleeding gums, then you may have Vitamin C deficiency.
In the long run, Vitamin C will ensure optimal gum health and lower your risk of periodontal disease. That is why it is one of the top vitamins for teeth and gums.
You can consume it through natural sources or take supplements. Even leafy greens and potatoes have Vitamin C to help you fulfill any deficiencies you may have.
4. Phosphorus – Best for Calcium Absorption
Sources: Protein-rich foods, whole grains, milk, and nuts
Most of the phosphorus present in your body exists in the teeth and bones. The primary aim of this vitamin is to serve as a foundation for healthy teeth and bones.
If you are taking calcium, then your body needs phosphorus to absorb that calcium and ensure its effectiveness. The best part is that you are probably already getting enough of this vitamin without supplements.
So, you will not have to change your diet or add supplements to benefit from these vitamins for teeth and gums. Please note that phosphorus from animal sources has a higher absorption rate than other sources.
5. Vitamin K – Best for Preventing Tooth Decay
Sources: Leafy greens, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, and parsley
Anyone looking for the best vitamins for teeth and gums to prevent tooth decay shouldn’t look further than Vitamin K. It activates proteins that ensure the mineralization of bones and teeth.
Even when you are going through teeth and gum irritation and infection, Vitamin K can help the site to heal more quickly. So, be sure to add these vitamins to your diet and benefit from optimal teeth health and healing.
6. Vitamin B12 – Best for Keeping Bones and Teeth Strong
Sources: Lean meats, eggs, poultry, seafood, soy products, nuts and seeds, lentils, peas, and beans
A lack of Vitamin B12 in the body can lead to tooth loss because of weak gums and bones. There are many symptoms that will let you know whether you are Vitamin B12 deficient.
These include constipation, weakness, fatigue, appetite loss, and more. It is best to ask your dentist what foods to include in your diet to benefit from this vitamin.
On the other hand, we recommend talking to your doctor before you begin taking B12 supplements for your health. Based on your health and history, they will let you know the best course of action.
7. Vitamin B6 – Best for Aiding Healthy Bones
Sources: Tuna, avocadoes, sunflower seeds, chickpeas, bananas, and more
Another Vitamin B6 you need for strengthening teeth and bones is Vitamin B6. If your body doesn't have enough B6, you will be prone to developing diarrhea and anemia.
In the long run, these will also help you have strong teeth. So, take these vitamins for teeth and others to witness the best results for oral health.
8. Vitamin A – Best for Preventing Dry Mouth
Sources: Leafy greens, liver, egg yolks, and fish
A dry mouth can be incredibly frustrating and an indication that your saliva production is not optimal. If that is the case, then Vitamin A is one of the best vitamins for teeth and gums.
The function of saliva is to help break down your food and clean the bacteria between your teeth. Because of this, you will benefit from a healthy mouth that will never go dry.
Add these vitamins through natural sources to your diet, and witness the difference in dry mouth. You can also take this vitamin as a supplement if need be.
9. Zinc – Best for Preventing Formation of Dental Plaque
Sources: Whole grains, nuts, chicken, beef, and oysters
Plaque is a bacteria film that can form on your teeth, leading to gum disease and tooth decay. Zinc works by inhibiting the growth of this bacteria so that plaque doesn't form.
It also reduces inflammation and supports your immune system. Even after a ruptured gum tissue, zinc can help heal the area.
So, if you want to prevent dental plaque and related issues, then be sure to load up on these vitamins for teeth and gums.
10. Magnesium – Best for Maintaining Strong Tooth Enamel
Sources: Leafy greens, whole grains, pumpkin seeds, almonds, and salmon
Magnesium is one of the best vitamins for teeth and gums, as a deficiency of this mineral can lead to oral health issues and bone loss.
It also helps with the absorption of calcium in the teeth. This will help you build healthy and strong enamel in the long run.
For overall health, magnesium can help boost your immune system. Make sure to add this vitamin to your diet or opt for supplements.
11. Potassium – Best for Neutralizing Acids in the Mouth
Sources: Bananas, leafy vegetables, tomatoes, potatoes, oranges
Potassium and magnesium work together to neutralize the acids in your mouth. Too much acid can lead to periodontal disease and tooth decay, which harm your overall health.
You can ensure the intake of magnesium and potassium together to help improve your bone health. It will also help you maintain the strength and health of your jawbone for the best results.
Vitamins for Tooth Decay
We have taken a look at the general vitamins for teeth and gums that improve the health of your mouth. If you have specific issues and you are looking to deal with them through vitamins and supplements, then you can do that, too.
If you are experiencing tooth decay or want to prevent this issue, then here are the top vitamins for tooth decay prevention:
· Vitamin B12
· Vitamin A
· Vitamin C
· Vitamin E
· Vitamin K
· Vitamin D
These vitamins for tooth decay prevention will ensure that your teeth are in good health. You will not have to worry about tooth loss or decay problems.
Vitamins for Gum Bleeding
Gum bleeding is an indication that your body might be lacking Vitamin C. Because of this, Vitamin C is one of the best vitamins for gum bleeding.
It works by strengthening your body's antibacterial defence systems along with your gum health. This is why you can add more citrus fruits to your diet to ensure there are adequate vitamins for gum bleeding.
You can easily reach the recommended daily intake of this vitamin if you make smart choices. Then, you can take care of your gum bleeding problems.
Vitamins for Gum Receding
Gums can bleed, and they can also begin receding with time. A lack of Vitamin D can lead to gum recession.
So, it is crucial to begin taking Vitamin D supplements to avoid any gum recession. It will also ensure that tooth decay isn’t an issue for you.
Other vitamins may not work as well. We recommend you consult with your dentist before you take any vitamins for teeth and gums.
Depending on your oral and overall health requirements, they will provide you with the best course of action.
FAQs
Which vitamin is good for gums and teeth?
Potassium, magnesium, iron, vitamins A, B, C, D, and K, and calcium are all good for gums and teeth.
What vitamin helps restore teeth?
Many vitamins can help maintain teeth and gums. Overall, including various minerals and vitamins in your diet will help you restore teeth.
Which vitamin B is best for gums?
B2, B3, B6, and B12 are good for overall oral health. The combination of these vitamins for teeth and gums can prevent bad breath and the appearance of sores.
What vitamin deficiency causes bad gums?
A deficiency of Vitamin B12 can cause bad gums. A lack of this vitamin leads to periodontitis along with a deficiency of Vitamin A. Both are essential minerals to maintain your gum health for a long time.
Final Thoughts
You can begin incorporating these vitamins for teeth and gums into your diet through supplements or natural food sources. Just make sure you are taking the right nutrients for your problems.
We recommend you get in touch with our dentists in Kitchener for expert advice. They will assess your oral health and let you know whether you are on the right track with your nutrient and mineral consumption.