As per one of the leading milk-producing and consuming, Gujarat loves milk and milk products such as peda, shrikhand, buttermilk, and kheer. All milk is showing in their teeth!
A Gujarat Forensic Science University (GFSU) study has indicated that calcium in teeth of a person from Gujarat is higher compared to southern states. The study compared stratified samples from Gujarat and Kerala- among top and bottom states in terms of per capita milk consumption- to monitor if the diet has an effect on tooth development.
Dr. Rajesh Babu, the assistant professor with GFSU “The Gujarat Population under the study showed 82% calcium than Kerala counterparts which had 80% calcium in their teeth composition. A 2% deviation is very significant in teeth.”
Dr. Babu along with Dr. Abhinav Raj, a master’s student in forensic odontology, undertook the study as part of humanitarian forensics.
Dr. Babu adds, ”In case of a calamity, it is very difficult to identify a person dead or alive. However, we can concentrate on the teeth. Teeth can withstand heavy pressure and even fire. Thus it can become perfect samples and therefore become easier for primary identification.”
How calcium intake from milk impacts your teeth?
Strong teeth and bones are very important for our overall health. The important nutrient that keeps bones and teeth healthy is calcium. Calcium strengthens our teeth and bones. Also, it is important for the blood vessels, muscles and body fluids. Calcium help blood vessels and muscles to function properly.
Having sufficient calcium in our body reduces the risk of osteoporosis, a condition that weakens the bones and breaks them more easily.
Osteoporosis not only affect your bones, but it can also affect your teeth. It can make your jaw bone weak resulting in pain. Basically, a jaw bone is the anchor of teeth, and if it weakens, teeth may loosen and possibly fall out.
Women are three times more likely to lose their teeth if they have osteoporosis.
Required calcium intake for healthy teeth and bones
The National Academy of Sciences recommends different dietary intake of calcium based on gender and age.
- Babies 0-12 Months- 200mg-260mg
- Toddlers 1-3 Years- 700mg
- Children 4-8 years- 1000mg
- Children & Teens 9-8 years-1300mg
- Adults 19-71 years-1000mg
- Adults 71+ years- 1200mg
* Exact calcium consumption may vary according to gender and for pregnant women.
Dairy products such as milk, curd, buttermilk, paneer and cheese are some of the best sources of calcium. For vegans, you don’t have to worry about your calcium intake. Foods such as green leafy vegetables and cereals too contain calcium. You can also take multivitamin tablets that contain calcium as recommended by your doctor.
Therefore, if you follow your dentist’s instructions and have a good healthy diet with proper calcium content, you will surely have a healthy and bright smile. Just like the Gujaratis!
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