Are Antioxidants Good for Teeth?

There are many ways you can keep your teeth looking healthy and beautiful. You can brush and floss regularly, visit your dentist twice a year for checkups and cleanings, or eat a healthy diet rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants are excellent for your teeth, and can enhance your dental health and general wellness.

Dr. Jean Barthman practices modern restorative and cosmetic dentistry in Redwood City, CA, and empowers patients with tips for preventative care. Below our team explores how antioxidants can improve the health of your teeth. We’ll also note some great sources of antioxidants that you can incorporate into your diet.

What Are Antioxidants?

Antioxidants are chemicals that counteract the harmful effects of free radicals. Free radicals are unstable atoms that break down cells over time. Cellular oxidative stress advances the aging of all cells, including the teeth and gums. A diet rich in antioxidants can help you fight cavities and gum disease.

Key antioxidants include vitamins A, C, and E. Let’s look at each of these vitamins individually.

Vitamin A

Carrots aren’t just good for the eyes. Beta-carotene, found in orange fruits and vegetables, converts into vitamin A in the body. Vitamin A helps strengthen the keratin found in tooth enamel.

This powerhouse antioxidant is found in:

• Fish
• Egg yolks
• Leafy greens
• Sweet potatoes
• Pumpkins
• Carrots
• Cantelope

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is famous for boosting immunity during the flu and cold season. It strengthens the soft tissue in the mouth and helps prevent periodontal disease. Citrus fruits, dark leafy greens, and potatoes are rich in vitamin C.

Vitamin E

Healthy gums are essential for a healthy smile. The gums help secure and protect the tooth roots, and are linked to overall dental wellness. Vitamin E helps people avoid periodontal disease by preventing inflammation in the gums.

Some good sources of vitamin E include:

• Olives and olive oil
• Nuts and seeds
• Avocado
• Mangoes
• Kiwis

Vitamin K

Vitamin K is not typically considered an antioxidant, but it has important antioxidant potential. It shields substances that dismantle bone and assists the body in constructing osteocalcin. Osteocalcin is a protein that maintains bone durability and can be found in bone as well as the dentin layer beneath your tooth enamel.

Vitamin K is found in many vegetables and other kinds of foods, including:

• Broccoli
• Parsley
• Brussel sprouts
• Spinach
• Collard greens
• Liver
• Chicken
• Prunes

Should I Take Antioxidant Supplements?

If you are not getting enough of essential vitamins and minerals in your daily diet, you can take vitamins and other dietary supplements as needed. However, it’s important to avoid taking too many antioxidant supplements as these can have a negative effect on your health. Consult with your physician before starting any involved supplement routine.

Generally speaking, it’s best to eat a diet that is rich in vegetables, fruits, and other nutrient rich foods. This will help you naturally incorporate antioxidants into your daily meals, and may be better at preventing oxidative damage than supplements alone.

Book a Consultation in Redwood City

If you have additional questions about how antioxidants and aspects of your diet affect your overall dental health, send us a message online. You can also schedule an appointment at our Redwood City location by calling (650) 367-4967.