Does Calcium Strengthen Teeth for Children?

Your child’s teeth have been forming since they were still snuggled up in the womb. Isn’t it amazing to think about? This is one reason why doctors advise women to take prenatal vitamins that include adequate amounts of calcium. Calcium is a mineral that is essential to healthy teeth, bones, and muscles. You see, calcium is an important part of the healthy formation and maintenance of both teeth and bone. In fact, these areas are where most of the body’s stores of calcium are contained.

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The Role of Calcium in Tooth Development

In conjunction with Vitamin D3, calcium plays a huge role in both the development and overall health of dental enamel. The body stores most of its calcium within your teeth and bones. In fact, the body is constantly replenishing your calcium stores with the calcium rich food and vegetables that you eat.

While it’s true that your child’s teeth have been forming since before they were born, it’s also true that their adult teeth are continuing to be formed in childhood. The mineralization process, the process by which teeth become stronger with the help of calcium, continues well into adolescence. This is why an adequate intake of calcium is so important during childhood.

Does Calcium Strengthen Teeth for Children?

Absolutely! It is extremely important that you child eat a variety of calcium-rich foods and dairy products. Make sure that your child eats cheese, yogurt, and milk without any added sugar.

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If your child has a dairy allergy, there’s good news. Leafy greens such as kale, collard greens and broccoli, among others, all contain calcium. Beans and peas also contain calcium as do certain types of fish, such as salmon.

Do you have a very picky eater? Vitamin supplements are also a great way to make sure that your child has an adequate calcium intake. Since Vitamin D3 helps our bodies absorb calcium better, make sure that the vitamin supplement you choose for your child includes it. Consult with your pediatrician to ensure your child is having adequate vitamin calcium intake.  Remember, gummy vitamins often contain a lot of sugar, and are extremely sticky!  Make sure to maintain good oral hygiene habits if your child is using gummy vitamins.

The Importance of Calcium in Teeth

Getting enough calcium in your diet is important for the healthy maintenance of your teeth and gums.   Calcium contributes to a healthy growth. To help your child have better dental checkups, be sure that they are getting enough calcium in their diet from a variety of sources and fluoride in toothpaste.

Related: Can Fruit Cause Tooth Decay?

Calcium is Important

In addition to healthy teeth and bones, calcium also plays an important role in muscle and blood vessel health. Having an adequate amount of calcium in your body minimizes the threat of osteoporosis in adulthood. Set your child up for a lifetime of strong bones and healthy teeth by making sure they have a calcium-rich diet.