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Plaque buildupDental plaque is a buildup of bacterial microorganisms in you teeth. If not treated, it can lead to cavities, gingivitis, tartar, decay and tooth loss. The bacteria, combined with food residue, can form a thicker layer if not removed, which will produce acids and eat at the surface of your teeth and gums. Brushing and flossing regularly will dramatically decrease and reverse plaque growth and damage. According to essortment.com, vitamins A, C, D and minerals like calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and fluoride will help your teeth, gums and bones stay strong and prevent disease. -
Beta-carotene can be found in most orange-colored foodsVitamins A is a fat soluble vitamin that influences the growth and development of teeth, bones, soft tissue, skin, hair and vision. According to essortment.com, this vitamin aids in the maintenance of your mouth; it keeps teeth strong, mucous membranes healthy, prevents plaque and fights disease. Beta-carotene, a precursor of vitamin A, has strong antioxidant properties to prevent periodontal disease and fight decay. Vitamin A should rarely be supplemented because it can be toxic in large amounts, but it is easily found in a healthy diet. It can be consumed in foods like carrots, cantaloupe, broccoli, sweet potato, milk, eggs, spinach and fish. -
Grapefruit is an excellent source of vitamin CVitamin C is a water soluble vitamin that helps fight infection and repair tissue. It promotes healthy gums, teeth, bones, blood vessels, tissue and skin, according to essortment.com. This vitamin blocks plaque growth, fights cancer and prevents gingivitis. Also known as ascorbic acid, vitamin C prevents plaque build-up and has antioxidants to fight the microorganisms that form the biofilm on your teeth, according to essortment.com.
Found in citrus, berries, broccoli, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, peppers and parsley, vitamin C should be a part of your every day diet. Since it is not stored in your body, you should take a supplement if you are not consuming enough daily. -
Get Vitamin D from dairy products.Vitamin D is essential to keeping teeth, gums and bones strong and healthy. It helps strengthen your jaw bone to avoid tooth loss, fights periodontal disease and helps to protect you against plaque buildup. Vitamin D is created in the body from exposure to sunshine but can also be found in foods like fish, milk, eggs, butter and cheese. Good for your immune system, vitamin D fights the bacteria that causes gum disease and inflammation. -
Brush your teeth!Vitamins A, C and D are all needed to maintain oral hygiene and to stop and reverse plaque growth. Vitamin A promotes growth and development, vitamin C fights infection and disease, and vitamin D maintains the health and strength of teeth, gums and bone. Eating foods rich with these nutrients will help your teeth stay healthy and prevent dental plaque.
In addition to vitamin consumption, it is important that you brush twice a day, floss regularly and schedule professional cleanings every six months. Avoid foods high in sugar, that are processed, starchy or sticky, such as soda, raisins, candy and fast food, which irritate gums, demineralize enamel and promote plaque growth. Instead drink green tea and lots of water, which will ward off decay and disease and reverse plaque damage.
