How Good Milk is for the Teeth

As most of us likely know, milk products are jampacked with calcium, a main component of strong bone development, with one average glass of milk containing nearly 300 milligrams of calcium. However, one additional perk to milk and other dairy products is that they keep teeth just as healthy as bones throughout a person’s life. So, in response to the question of whether milk is good for the teeth, the answer is a clear yes, and here are the reasons why.

The Necessity of Milk Begins Early

Per the National Institutes of Health, a person’s bones and teeth store about 99 percent of the body's calcium. Given babies' teeth start forming before birth, it’s best for expectant mothers to consume a recommended allowance of 1000 to 1300 mg per day, ensuring the unborn child gets enough phosphorus, calcium, and other necessary nutrients to properly develop their bones and teeth. Milk and other dairy products are important from infancy to teen years to even beyond that, especially since calcium is crucial for preventing osteoporosis as we age.

Dairy Fights Off Decay

According to current research, milk and other dairy products like cheese can also cut down on tooth decay, as they contain not only phosphorous and calcium but also caseins, which mix together to create a protective film over teeth enamel. This coating can help prevent teeth from developing decay brought on by bacterial acids. Phosphorus and calcium are both minerals that repair and strengthen enamel that has begun dissolving because of acid attacks.

One notable way to use milk to fight off decay involves the order with which people consume sugary foods and dairy products. Eating sugary foods first, such as chocolate cookies, and then drinking milk can lower the mouth’s acid levels, thereby lowering one’s risk of tooth decay.

Adding More Milk to a Diet

While many foods have calcium, milk and other dairy products are known for absorbing more easily into the body, with their calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and vitamin D all helping the body to more effectively absorb and then use calcium. For those who are watching calories, skim milk offers the same amount of calcium as two percent or whole milk. Even for those who aren’t milk drinkers, there are also cheeses, yogurts, and buttermilk as solid substitutes, which also have low-fat or fat-free versions.

Say Yes to Milk and No to Soda

For kids and adults alike, cutting down on sugary drinks like soda can be easier said than done. However, given milk’s capacity for reducing tooth decay, it never hurts to try stocking the fridge with less soda and more milk. Even people who don’t prefer regular milk can opt for chocolate milk instead to lesser degrees.

Milk and Oral Health Care Basics

Consuming plenty of dairy can make a person’s teeth stronger, but having an equally strong oral health care routine is just as important for preventing dental problems. Remember to brush twice per day, use fluoride toothpaste, and to floss at least once per day. As well, regular checkups and cleanings with the dentist are necessary for filling in any gaps left in your regular oral health care routine.

Eating and drinking right is not enough to keep your teeth healthy, as you need a good oral hygiene program as well. To find out how you can save as much as 20 percent off your dental visits, click here.

Copyright : Oksana Kuzmina