In the past five years, kale has been on the rise as one of the most popular fit foods. You can find kale in any restaurant that focuses on natural, health-boosting foods. Kale is known for the density of nutrients it contains, including Vitamin A, C, and K, as well as essential minerals such as iron, calcium, copper and phosphorus. There are plenty of ways these nutrients positively influence your overall health, but did you know they are key ingredients in having a strong, healthy mouth and smile? Check out the ways each of these kale nutrients can keep your oral health in line!

 

Vitamin A

The main contribution Vitamin A gives to your mouth is maintaining the proper amount of saliva. It also helps maintain the health of the gums, and contributes to gum recovery for those impacted by gingivitis and periodontal disease.

 

Vitamin C

This essential vitamin builds and repairs gum tissue and prevents inflammation which is a true sign of potential gum disease. Your oral health depends on strong gums that can fight bacteria buildup.

 

Calcium

It is common knowledge that the right amount of calcium creates strong, healthy bones. Your teeth rely on calcium to prevent breakage after oral treatments like cavity fillings or root canals.

 

Vitamin K

There is such a thing as calcium build up, but don’t worry! Vitamin K comes to the rescue. Vitamin K directs calcium to your teeth and bones preventing clogged blood vessels. Oral health is closely related to your cardiovascular system and relies on a steady blood flow to keep tissue healthy.

 

Iron

An iron deficiency can lead to inflamed tissue in your tongue and sides of mouth which produce mouth sores, or otherwise known as canker sores. A steady amount of iron maintains oral health and reduces the risk of getting and/or spreading mouth sores with others.

 

Copper

The enzymes in copper can prevent acid production in saliva which leads to plaque build up and can harden tartar at a quicker rate. Copper keeps teeth from collecting excess bacteria.

 

Phosphorus

Although alone, phosphorus does not contribute directly to oral health, it is found in fluoride with calcium to create phosphate. Dental tissue relies on phosphate to remain soft and responsive to tooth growth and movement.

 

In honor of National Kale Day, head to the grocery store for some kale and seasoning and make yourself some kale chips. But it doesn’t have to be kale day for you to keep oral health a priority. Contact Greenspoint Dental in the Houston, Texas area to set up an appointment and learn more about what you should do to keep your oral health in check.