A strong and healthy jaw bone is the foundation of the smile. Without healthy bone, teeth shift out of place and make it difficult to speak and eat properly. As you age, your jaw bone is susceptible to deterioration due to missing teeth and gum disease. Keeping your jaw bone in good health depends on proper nutrition, dental treatments, and good hygiene. Here are a few tips to keep that jaw bone health for a lifetime of beautiful smiles.
Consume Plenty of Calcium
Most of the calcium in your body is found in your bones and teeth, but you lose some of that each day through your skin, nails, hair, and even sweat. Calcium is a necessary mineral that our bodies can’t provide. Foods rich in calcium protect your bones from deterioration as you age. It is found in dairy products, nuts, leafy greens, and fish. You can take a calcium supplement if your doctor recommends it, but it’s important to take the correct dosage for your age, gender, and weight.
Maintain Healthy Vitamin D Levels
If calcium is the building block of your bones, then vitamin D ensures it is appropriately used. Without it, your body and bones can’t absorb the calcium that you ingest, inhibiting your jaw and overall health. Many dairy products contain added vitamin D to ensure that the calcium is absorbed, but it may not be enough to meet your daily requirements. The only way to get vitamin D naturally is by exposing your bare skin to sunlight. During winter, vitamin D supplements are recommended.
Eat a Balanced Diet of Fresh, Whole Foods
A healthy diet will provide your body with a variety of vitamins and minerals for optimum health. Aim to eat a variety of these foods each day, including at least five servings of fruits and vegetables. Eating fresh fruits and vegetables will also protect your teeth from decay and prevent gum disease, which is a leading cause of jaw bone deterioration.
Your jaw bone makes up the vital framework that supports healthy teeth. If you have loose teeth or are concerned that your jaw bone isn’t as healthy as it should be, give our Lorton or Springfield office a call to schedule a consultation.
