Tooth decay occurs when the enamel, dentin, pulp or root deteriorates from prolonged exposure to bacteria, according to New York University Langone Medical Center. The food you eat, specifically sugar, interacts with the bacteria in your mouth to form plaque. Plaque sticks to your teeth and erodes your enamel, increasing your susceptibility to infection and decay. During the early stages of tooth decay, consuming calcium-rich foods, as well as adequate amounts of fluoride and phosphate, can reverse this process.
Calcium
Calcium is the most abundant mineral in your body. Ninety-nine percent of this calcium is located in your teeth and bones, according to Linus Pauling Institute. Specifically, calcium contributes to overall oral health by aiding in the development of baby and adult teeth, strengthening jaw bones, promoting gum health and guarding against decay. Additionally, calcium aids in other bodily functions, such as nerve activity, blood clotting and muscle contraction.
Calcium and Tooth Decay
Consuming foods rich in calcium promotes stronger tooth enamel and increases the density of your teeth. However, calcium deficiency causes your body to withdraw this mineral from your bones and teeth to sustain more pressing bodily functions. When calcium is withdrawn, your teeth are weakened and become susceptible to decay and infection. During the early stages of decay, consuming an adequate supply of calcium can repair and replenish the calcium in your teeth.
Calcium Intake
Adolescents, females and the elderly are at an increased risk of developing calcium deficiency, according of the Office of Dietary Supplements. The recommended daily allowance for adults 19 to 50 years is 1,000 milligrams per day and 1,200 milligrams per day for adults over 50 years, according to Linus Pauling Institute. Calcium-rich foods include milk, yogurt, cheddar cheese, legumes, tofu, Brazil nuts, almonds, salmon, oysters, dried figs, kelp, broccoli, kale, spinach, turnip greens, pudding, cottage cheese, sour cream, Chinese cabbage and rhubarb.
Warnings
Vitamin D aids in the absorption of calcium. If you are deficient in vitamin D, your body may experience difficulty utilizing and retaining the calcium you consume. Good sources of vitamin D include consistent daily sunlight and foods rich in vitamin D, such as fortified milk and cereals, salmon, tuna and mackerel. The daily recommended allowance of vitamin D is 600 international units for individuals 70 years and younger and 800 international units for adults over 70 years, according to Harvard School of Public Health. Other variables that can interfere with your calcium status include magnesium deficiency, parathyroid functioning, kidney failure, large quantities of sodium, blood pressure medication and cholesterol-lowering medication.
References
- New York University Langone Medical Center; Tooth Decay; Rick Alan; July 2011
- Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University; Calcium; Jane Higdon; November 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Calcium; Steven Ehrlich; March 2009
- Harvard School of Public Health: Vitamin D and Health - What Should You Eat?
- “Cure Tooth Decay: Remineralize Cavities and Repair Your Teeth Naturally with Good Foods”; Ramiel Nagel; 2011
- Office of Dietary Supplements: Dietary Supplements Fact Sheet: Calcium
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