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What to know about calcium deficiency and teeth

Calcium is a nutrient that can benefit a person’s teeth and bones. A calcium deficiency may have adverse effects on a person’s dental health.

This article explains everything a person needs to know about calcium deficiency and how it can affect the teeth.

What is the relationship between calcium and teeth?

Calcium is an important nutrient that people need to consume for strong bones and teeth.

When a person does not consume enough calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D, they can develop weaker, less-dense bones and teeth. This can lead to osteoporosis and other health complications, such as tooth decay and tooth loss.

According to the New York State Department of Health, females living with osteoporosis tend to have fewer teeth than those of a similar age not living with the condition. They also note that if the jawbone weakens or thins, it may no longer support the teeth properly, leading to tooth loss.

Symptoms of calcium deficiency in teeth

Calcium deficiency can cause bones throughout the body to become less dense and more fragile. When this occurs, it can make a person more susceptible to losing teeth.

According to an older study, researchers found a direct correlation between not getting enough calcium and losing teeth. The researchers found that people who did not take in enough calcium each day were much more likely to lose at least one tooth within a 2-yearTrusted Source follow-up period.

Other symptoms of calcium deficiency

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the signs of calcium deficiency may not become apparent for several years because a person’s body will pull calcium from their bones when there is a deficiency.

Over the long term, calcium deficiency can cause:

Low bone mass, also called osteopenia, an increased risk of osteoporosis, higher risk of bone fractures.

The NIH also state that severe cases of calcium deficiency can cause:

Convulsions, numbness or tingling in the fingers, abnormal heart rhythms.

What to eat

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommend that people add more calcium-rich foods to their diet.

There are various dietary sources of calcium, including nondairy and vegan options. They include:

Dairy products, including milk, cheese, and yogurt, soy milk, tofu with added calcium, dark green, leafy vegetables, almonds, beans, orange juice with added calcium, canned fish.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recommend that a person eat foods rich in vitamin C and phosphorus in addition to calcium. Vitamin C helps promote gum health, while phosphorus, which is in foods such as beans, eggs, and meats, is important for strong teeth.

According to the ADA, lost teeth can lead to nutritional issues. They say that a person who has experienced tooth loss is more likely to eat a soft diet that may not include necessary nutrients. This can lead to other complications, such as obesity.

The ADA also recommend that a person talk to their dentist about replacing missing teeth. They say that having properly fitting dentures can make a difference in helping a person maintain a regular, healthful diet.

Consuming enough calcium is an important part of preventing bone density loss. However, people should try to get their calcium and other nutrients from foods rather than supplements.

(04/09/2021)
by Medical News Today

More Information: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/calcium-deficiency-teeth

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