Everyone knows that good nutrition is crucial for overall health and well being.  And we also know that children, whose teeth are forming, need many vitamins and minerals (like calcium) to help with the proper development of their teeth and surrounding bone.  What we might not know is that good nutrition continues to be important for our oral health throughout our adult lives and that nutritional deficiencies can cause all types of dental problems.  In fact, signs of nutritional deficiencies are often seen first in the mouth.

Calcium and Vitamin D, no longer needed for tooth development in adults, are now important for healthy bone around teeth.  Diets lacking in calcium and vitamin D (think dairy, leafy greens and fortified breads and cereals) can contribute to osteoporosis, which can lead to tooth loss.

Vitamin C and Zinc (found in citrus fruits and red meat, respectively) are important in wound healing and infection prevention.  An individual with a deficiency in either of these nutrients might experience more severe gingivitis or problems with chronic ulcers from a poor fitting denture.

The B vitamins and iron (found in meat, leafy greens and grains) also help keep the soft tissues of the mouth healthy.  A diet rich in these, helps prevent red, swollen and tender gums, tongue and lips.

So make sure your diet is balanced to include all of the nutrients you need to stay healthy.  Consult your healthcare provider if you have concerns, especially if you feel that you might benefit from nutritional counseling or nutritional supplementation.  Your body and your smile will thank you!

Keep smiling!

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Caron Nelson Glickman, DDS has been helping her patients achieve and maintain healthy smiles in Duvall since 1992.

          For more information, contact 425-788-1551.

          Caron Nelson Glickman,DDS
          26425 NE Allen Street, #102 • Duvall
          425-788-1551 • caronnelson@comcast.net
          www.great-smile.com