11 Jul Magnesium Is Good for Your Teeth—Are You Getting Enough?
Did you know that foods rich in magnesium are good for your teeth? If you’re not getting enough magnesium, your dental health could start to decline.
We’ve mentioned in the past how a vitamin deficiency can contribute to cavities and gum disease. And we’ve also talked about how eating a nutritious diet can lead to better dental health. That’s because getting the right nutrition can help you prevent all sorts of dental problems, from cavities to tooth loss.
There are several essential minerals that you need for strong enamel, teeth, and bones. One of them is magnesium—here’s why.
Calcium and Magnesium: How They Work Together
Everyone knows that calcium helps you build strong teeth and bones. However, most people don’t realize that the amount of calcium you get in your diet doesn’t equal the amount that your body absorbs. That’s why you need magnesium—it helps your body absorb and use more calcium.
But that isn’t the only reason why magnesium is good for your teeth.
How a Magnesium Deficiency Affects Your Teeth
First of all, if you don’t get enough magnesium, you could end up with a calcium deficiency. When your body doesn’t get enough calcium from the food you eat, it will start to use the calcium stored in your bones. This can weaken your jaw and the structures that support your teeth, leading to tooth loss.
Second, magnesium makes it easier for your body to absorb and use calcium. If you’re at risk for osteoporosis, make sure you’re getting enough magnesium. You’ll also want to make sure you’re eating lots of calcium-rich foods like dairy products, almonds, beans, and dark green leafy vegetables.
Third, a magnesium deficiency could be contributing to jaw pain. If you grind your teeth or have TMJ pain, a lack of magnesium could be making your symptoms worse. Magnesium helps to ease tense muscles, so taking a supplement could help with jaw pain relief. It also calms the nervous system and helps you get a more restful sleep (with less teeth grinding).
Which Foods Are Rich in Magnesium?
When you eat a balanced diet, full of fresh fruits and vegetables, it’s easier to get all the vitamins and minerals you need. In fact, some of the same foods that are rich in calcium—like dark leafy greens, nuts, and beans—are also rich in magnesium.
If you want to balance your magnesium levels, eat more of these foods:
- Dark Chocolate/Cacao
- Avocados and Bananas
- Almonds, Cashews, and Brazil Nuts
- Chickpeas, Lentils, and Soybeans
- Pumpkin Seeds and Chia Seeds
- Spinach, Swiss Chard, and Mustard Greens
You can also take a multivitamin every day to support good nutrition. But before you decide to take a calcium or magnesium supplement, talk to your doctor to make sure it’s okay. Getting too much calcium can be even more dangerous than not getting enough.
Holistic Dental Care in Prescott, Arizona
At Prescott Dentistry, we know that good dental health and good physical health go hand in hand. Eating the right foods and getting all the vitamins and minerals you need will help you keep your teeth—and your body—strong and healthy. If you’re looking for a dentist who focuses on wellness and prevention, contact us to make an appointment.
Photo by Lisa Weinstein on Unsplash used with permission under the creative commons license for commercial use 6/3/25.