In addition to their aesthetic and social benefits, healthy teeth prove important in proper speech and communication, as well as aid in feeding and food breakdown. The health of your teeth depends partially on the quality of your diet, and consuming essential vitamins and minerals can help promote healthy teeth. Your teeth indirectly absorb minerals from your diet, but do not typically absorb minerals from your saliva.
Minerals and Tooth Strength
A number of minerals from your diet contribute to the strength of your teeth. Calcium, magnesium and phosphorus -- all essential minerals -- interact with hydrogen and make up the hydroxyapatite that form the other layers of your teeth. In some cases, your tooth tissue can incorporate another mineral, fluoride, in place of the hydrogen in hydroxyapatite. This fluoride strengthens the molecular bonds to harden your teeth and preserve strong tooth tissue.
Surface Mineral Absorption
In some cases, the surface of your teeth can absorb some minerals. When your dentist applies fluoride trays to your teeth during dental checkups, your teeth begin to incorporate fluoride into your enamel. However, your body cannot efficiently directly absorb minerals from food in your mouth, or absorb minerals directly from your saliva.
Dietary Absorption
Your teeth typically absorb minerals from your food following digestion. As your food passes through your stomach and digestive tract, digestive enzymes break down the food, allowing your intestinal wall to absorb the minerals that make up tooth tissue, then transport those minerals through your body and use the minerals to maintain your teeth. Consuming enough calcium, magnesium and phosphorus as part of your diet all contribute to healthy teeth, while consuming moderate amounts of fluoride via fluoridated water or tea can also help maintain strong teeth.
Eating for Healthy Teeth
Even if your teeth cannot directly absorb minerals from your food, mineral intake can help preserve the strength of your teeth. Consume dairy products, tofu or calcium supplements to boost your intake, allowing your body to maintain strong teeth and bones. In addition, you can consume magnesium via dark leafy greens, as well as meats such as poultry; and consume phosphorus in a wide range of foods including vegetables, meats and legumes. Tooth-strengthening fluoride is naturally found in foods such as tea, as well as fluoride-enriched water. Never take supplemental minerals without consulting with your doctor, as an overdose can harm your health.
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