Are your teeth weak or brittle? Are they chipping easily and showing signs of being porous? If so, you may be experiencing a calcium deficiency in your enamel. Calcium strengthens our teeth, helping us to chew hard foods, protect the gum line from infection and preserve the integrity of each individual tooth. Unfortunately, this essential element can diminish with poor diet and lifestyle habits over time, leading to weakened enamel and an increased risk of tooth decay. But how can you replenish your supply of natural calcium for stronger dentition? In this post, we will explore ways to support healthier-looking teeth by addressing any existing deficiencies and methods for preventing further loss in the future.
What is a calcium deficiency, and what are its symptoms
Calcium deficiency, or hypocalcemia, occurs when your bloodstream has too little calcium for phosphorus and magnesium. Symptoms include muscle cramping, confusion, fatigue, numbness and tingling sensation in the feet and hands, brittle nails, and irregular heartbeats. As calcium plays an integral role in healthy teeth and bones, it’s possible that calcium deficiency can lead to cavities and weak teeth.
How can I diagnose calcium deficiency in my teeth?
Diagnosing calcium deficiency in your teeth can be done with a simple checkup by your dentist. A professional can detect anomalies that are not always visible, such as spotting white spots on the enamel or discolouration of the teeth. If such signs and symptoms are noticed, the dentist may recommend further testing to determine and diagnose a calcium deficiency. The most common test recommended is a dental X-ray, which helps visualise any larger problems with tooth structure due to calcium deficiency. This information can provide valuable insight for a proper treatment plan tailored to your needs.
What are the causes of calcium deficiency?
Calcium deficiency can result from inadequate intake or absorption of calcium-rich foods. Other causes of calcium deficiency include Crohn’s disease or inflammatory bowel disease, which impairs the body’s ability to absorb essential nutrients. Certain medications can interfere with calcium uptake from the diet.
How can I treat calcium deficiency in my teeth?
Calcium deficiency in teeth can be treated by replenishing the body’s calcium stores. This involves consuming calcium-rich foods such as dairy products, leafy green vegetables, fish with edible bones, nuts and seeds. Taking a daily multivitamin that contains calcium is also recommended. Additionally, vitamin D helps absorb and utilise calcium, so it is important to get enough of this vitamin by spending some time outside in the sun or using OTC supplements. It may be necessary to consult a qualified healthcare professional to determine the best course of action for treating calcium deficiency to ensure healthy teeth and bones.
What are some tips for preventing calcium deficiency in the future?
To prevent calcium deficiency in the future, it is important to engage in regular dietary practices that include sourcing various nutrient-dense foods. Eating a well-balanced diet consisting of dairy products, vegan sources such as dark leafy greens, nuts and seeds, and certain fish can help ensure you get adequate amounts of calcium and other trace minerals crucial for strong bones. Additionally, supplementing with calcium when needed can be beneficial as well.
Calcium Deficiency Teeth Treatment at Sutherland Dental, Sutherland NSW, Australia
Just as you need calcium for strong bones, you also need it for healthy teeth. If you have a calcium deficiency, talk to your doctor. They can help you determine if you need to take supplements or make changes to your diet. A simple fix like adding more calcium-rich foods to your meals could be all it takes to get your smile back on track.
If you have any further questions, feel free to reach out to us at Sutherland Dental.
