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
