Optimal dental health is inseparable from the role of essential minerals, one of which is calcium. This mineral is not only needed for the formation and maintenance of strong bones but is also crucial for preserving the structure and function of teeth. Without sufficient calcium intake, teeth become more vulnerable to damage, including caries and erosion.
Calcium: The Foundation of Strong Enamel
Enamel, the outermost layer of the teeth, is the hardest tissue in the human body—even harder than bone. However, its strength depends greatly on proper mineralization, in which calcium plays a central role. Calcium works together with phosphate and vitamin D to form hydroxyapatite, the dense crystals that make up enamel and dentin.
When calcium levels in the body are low, the body takes calcium from bones and teeth to maintain other physiological functions, leading to weakened dental hard tissue.
The Role of Calcium in Dental Tissue Healing
A study conducted by UGM Faculty of Dentistry student Jemmy Susatia, under the supervision of drg. Prihartiningsih, SU Sp.BM (K) and Dr. drg. Maria Goreti W, Sp.BM (K), titled “The Effect of Topical Application of Calcium Carbonate Paste on the Healing Process of Tooth Sockets” revealed that calcium is not only important in forming tooth structure but also in healing tissues after tooth extraction. The study showed that calcium directly contributes to the regeneration of socket tissue post-extraction.
Calcium carbonate has osteoconductive properties, meaning it can serve as a scaffold to support new bone formation in tooth sockets. The research highlighted the potential of topical calcium carbonate paste as an intervention that accelerates healing and improves bone quality after extraction. This is particularly significant in modern dentistry, especially in the context of dental implants or prosthetics, where the condition of the alveolar bone is critical for success.
Sources of Calcium and Daily Requirements
Calcium can be obtained from various foods, including milk, cheese, yogurt, soft-boned fish (sardines), nuts, and green vegetables such as spinach or broccoli. For adults, the daily calcium requirement ranges from 1000–1200 mg. However, in situations such as post-extraction recovery or during growth, the need for calcium may increase.
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Calcium plays a vital role in maintaining strong teeth and supporting oral hard tissue healing. Findings from UGM further emphasize that the topical application of calcium carbonate can accelerate new bone formation, enhancing post-extraction care. By maintaining proper calcium intake and utilizing mineral-based innovations, dental health can be preserved and restored more effectively.
References
Jemmy Susatia, drg. Prihartiningsih, SU Sp.BM (K), Dr. drg. Maria Goreti W, Sp.BM (K), The Effect of Topical Application of Calcium Carbonate Paste on Tooth Socket Healing, https://etd.repository.ugm.ac.id/penelitian/detail/130960
Author: Rizky B. Hendrawan | Photo: Freepik
