Vitamins for strengthening bones and teeth in children

Vitamins for strengthening bones and teeth in children: Full reference to parents

I. Fundamentals of bone and dental tissue in children

A. Bone tissue formation:

1. Construction blocks: Bone tissue is a living, dynamic structure consisting of cells (osteoblasts, osteocytes and osteoclasts) and intercellular substance (matrix). Matrix, in turn, consists of an organic component (collagen) and a mineral component (hydroxyapatitis). Collagen gives bones elasticity, and hydroxyapatitis – strength.
2. Ostoroblasts: These cells are responsible for the synthesis of collagen and the mineralization of bone tissue. They “build” a new bone, capturing calcium and phosphorus from the blood and laying them in matrix.
3. Osteocytes: These cells are mature osteoblasts enclosed in the bone matrix. They maintain bone vitality and regulate mineral metabolism.
4. Osteoclasts: These cells are responsible for the destruction of old or damaged bone tissue. They secrete acids and enzymes that dissolve the mineral component and break down collagen. This process is called bone resorption.
5. Bone remodeling: Bone tissue is constantly updated in the remodeling process. Osteoclasts destroy the old bone, and osteoblasts build a new one. This process allows bones to adapt to loads, recover after injuries and maintain mineral homeostasis.
6. Age features: The bone remodeling intensity varies depending on age. In children’s and adolescence, when active growth occurs, the rate of bone formation exceeds the rate of resorption. This leads to an increase in bone mass and density.
7. Spick bone mass: The maximum bone mass is achieved at the age of 20-30 years. After that, a gradual decrease in bone density begins, which can lead to osteoporosis in old age. Therefore, it is important to ensure the optimal formation of bone tissue in childhood and adolescence.
8. Factors affecting the formation of bone tissue: The formation of bone tissue is influenced by genetic factors, nutrition, physical activity and hormonal background. Sufficient consumption of calcium, vitamin D and other necessary nutrients, as well as regular physical exercises, contribute to the strengthening of bones.

B. Dental development:

1. Tooth structure: The tooth consists of a crown (visible part) and root (hidden part). The crown is covered with enamel – the hardest tissue in the body. Dentin is located under the enamel – the main mass of the tooth. Inside the tooth is a pulp – a soft tissue containing nerves and blood vessels.
2. Enamel: The enamel consists mainly of hydroxyapatitis, but also contains a small amount of organic substances and water. The enamel does not contain living cells and is not capable of self -healing.
3. Dentine: Dentine consists of an organic matrix (collagen) and a mineral component (hydroxyapatitis). Dentin is less firm than enamel, but more elastic. Dentine contains microscopic tubules, in which there are processes of odontoblasts – cells forming dentin.
4. Pulp: The pulp contains nerves and blood vessels that provide nutrition and innervation of the tooth. Pulp inflammation (pulpitis) can lead to severe pain and requires treatment.
5. Dental development: The development of teeth begins in the womb. At the age of 6-8 months, the child begins to erupt in the child. By the age of 2-3, all 20 milk teeth are usually erupted in a child.
6. Change of teeth: The change of milk teeth to permanent begins at the age of 6-7 years and lasts up to 12-13 years. By the age of 18-25, all 32 permanent teeth (including wisdom teeth) are usually erupted in a person.
7. Factors affecting the development of teeth: The development of teeth is influenced by genetic factors, nutrition, oral hygiene and general health. Sufficient consumption of calcium, fluorine and other necessary nutrients, as well as regular teeth brushing and visiting the dentist, contribute to the strengthening of teeth and the prevention of caries.

C. The relationship of bones and teeth:

1. General mineral composition: Both bones and teeth consist mainly of the mineral component – hydroxyapatitis, which contains calcium and phosphorus. Therefore, the lack of these minerals can adversely affect both bone tissue and teeth.
2. Vitamin D: Vitamin D plays an important role in the absorption of calcium and phosphorus necessary for the formation of bone and tooth tissue. Vitamin D deficiency can lead to rickets in children, which is manifested in the deformation of bones and teething delay.
3. Fluorine: The fluorine strengthens the enamel of the teeth and makes it more resistant to the effects of acids formed during the breakdown of sugars by bacteria in the oral cavity. Forts also contributes to the remineralization of enamel – the restoration of its mineral composition after exposure to acids.
4. General diseases: Some general diseases, such as diabetes and thyroid disease, can adversely affect both bone tissue and teeth.
5. Nutrition: A balanced diet rich in calcium, vitamin D, phosphorus and other necessary nutrients plays an important role in maintaining the health of bones and teeth.
6. Prevention: Regular visits to the doctor and dentist, as well as compliance with the rules of oral hygiene and a healthy lifestyle, help prevent bone and teeth.

II. The most important vitamins and minerals for bones and teeth in children

A. Vitamin D:

1. Role in the body: Vitamin D plays a key role in the absorption of calcium and phosphorus from the intestines. It also regulates the level of calcium in the blood and promotes its deposition in bone tissue.
2. Sources of vitamin D: Vitamin D is synthesized in the skin under the influence of sunlight. It is also contained in some foods such as fatty fish (salmon, tuna, sardines), egg yolk, mushrooms, enriched products (milk, yogurt, breakfast flakes).
3. Vitamin D deficiency: Vitamin D deficiency can lead to rickets in children – a disease that is characterized by bone deformation, teething with teething, muscle weakness and increased susceptibility to infections.
4. Rakhite: Rickets are a disease that occurs with a deficiency of vitamin D in children. It is characterized by a violation of bone mineralization, which leads to their deformation and weakness. Symptoms of rickets may include: a. Bone deformation: The curvature of the legs (valgus or varior deformation), chest deformation (“chicken chest”), thickening of the wrists and ankles (“rickets”). B. Teething delay: The teeth erupt later than usual, can be deformed and prone to caries. C. Muscle weakness: A child may experience difficulties when walking, sitting and crawling. D. Increased susceptibility to infections: Vitamin D deficiency weakens the immune system, which makes the child more susceptible to infections. E. Anxiety and irritability: The child can be restless, irritable and bad to sleep.
5. Prevention of vitamin D: Prevention of vitamin D deficiency includes: a. Sufficient stay in the sun: It is recommended to spend at least 15-20 minutes a day in the sun, especially in the summer months. However, you should remember the need to protect the skin from sunburn. B. The use of products rich in vitamin D: Include products containing vitamin D in the child’s diet, such as oily fish, egg yolk, mushrooms and enriched products. C. Vitamin D intake in the form of additives: In some cases, especially in the winter months or in children with an increased risk of vitamin D deficiency, it may require vitamin D in the form of additives. The dosage of vitamin D should be determined together with the doctor.
6. Recommended doses: The recommended daily dose of vitamin D for children varies depending on the age and the presence of risk factors for vitamin D deficiency. Usually 400-600 vitamin D is recommended per day for children aged 0 to 12 months and 600-800 IU for children over 1 year old.
7. Overdose of vitamin D: An overdose of vitamin D can lead to hypercalcemia (an increased level of calcium in the blood), which can cause nausea, vomiting, weakness, locking and damage to the kidneys. Therefore, it is important to observe the recommended doses of vitamin D and not exceed them without consulting a doctor.

B. Calcium:

1. Role in the body: Calcium is the main building material for bones and teeth. It also participates in the regulation of muscle function, nervous conduction, blood coagulation and other important processes.
2. Calcium sources: The main sources of calcium are dairy products (milk, yogurt, cheese), green leafy vegetables (broccoli, spinach, cabbage), enriched foods (juices, breakfast flakes), bones (sardines, canned salmon), nuts and seeds.
3. Calcium deficiency: Calcium deficiency can lead to a decrease in bone density, increased risk of fractures, muscle seizures, growth and development delay.
4. Recommended doses: The recommended daily dose of calcium for children varies depending on age: a. 0-6 months: 200 мг b. 7-12 months: 260 мг c. 1-3 years: 700 мг d. 4-8 years: 1000 мг e. 9-18 years: 1300 mg
5. Calcium assimilation: The assimilation of calcium depends on several factors, including the level of vitamin D, the presence of phosphorus, magnesium and other minerals, as well as the state of the gastrointestinal tract.
6. Calcium assimilation factors: Some factors can reduce the absorption of calcium, such as high consumption of salt, caffeine, carbonated drinks and fittes (contained in grain products).
7. Calcium preparations: In some cases, especially with calcium deficiency or increased need for it, calcium preparations may be required. Calcium preparations are available in various forms, such as calcium carbonate, calcium citrate and calcium gluconate. Calcium carbonate is better absorbed when eating, and calcium citrate can be taken regardless of eating.
8. Excess calcium: Excess calcium can lead to hypercalcemia (an increased level of calcium in the blood), which can cause nausea, vomiting, constipation, weakness and damage to the kidneys. Therefore, it is important to observe the recommended doses of calcium and not exceed them without consulting a doctor.

C. Phosphorus:

1. Role in the body: Phosphorus is an important mineral that plays a key role in the formation of bone tissue and teeth. It also participates in energy metabolism, regulation of acid-base balance and other important processes.
2. Sources of phosphorus: Phosphorus is contained in many foods such as dairy products, meat, fish, poultry, eggs, legumes, nuts, seeds and whole grains.
3. Phosphor deficiency: Phosphorus deficiency is rare, since phosphorus is widespread in food. However, phosphorus deficiency can occur in children with some diseases of the kidneys, gastrointestinal tract or with prolonged use of certain drugs.
4. Symptoms of phosphorus deficiency: Symptoms of phosphorus deficiency can include muscle weakness, bone pain, fatigue, anorexia and growth retardation.
5. Recommended doses: The recommended daily dose of phosphorus for children varies depending on age: a. 0-6 months: 100 мг b. 7-12 months: 275 мг c. 1-3 years: 460 мг d. 4-8 years: 500 мг e. 9-18 years: 1250 mg
6. Excess phosphorus: Excess phosphorus can lead to a violation of the absorption of calcium and increasing the risk of osteoporosis. Therefore, it is important to observe the balance between calcium and phosphorus.

D. Fluorine:

1. Role in the body: The fluorine strengthens the enamel of the teeth and makes it more resistant to the effects of acids formed during the breakdown of sugars by bacteria in the oral cavity. Forts also contributes to the remineralization of enamel – the restoration of its mineral composition after exposure to acids.
2. Fluorine sources: Poftor is contained in drinking water, toothpaste, rinses for the oral cavity and some food.
3. Water fluoridation: Water fluoridation is the process of adding fluorine to drinking water to the optimal concentration (usually 0.7-1.2 mg/l). Water fluoridation is an effective method of caries prevention.
4. Toothpaste with fluorine: Toothpaste with fluorine helps to strengthen the enamel of the teeth and prevent the development of caries. It is recommended to use toothpaste with fluorine twice a day after eating.
5. Rinsers for the oral cavity with fluorine: Rinsers for the oral cavity with fluorine can be used in addition to the toothpaste to strengthen the enamel of the teeth and the prevention of caries.
6. Fluorine-varnishes: Poftor varnishes are drugs containing a high concentration of fluorine. They are applied to the teeth with a dentist and help strengthen enamel and prevent the development of caries.
7. Fluorides for oral administration: Fluorides for oral administration (tablets, drops) can be prescribed for children with a high risk of decay of caries living in areas where drinking water is not fluorid.
8. Fluesture: Fluorosis is a disease that occurs with an excessive flow of fluorine into the body during the period of teeth. Fluorosis is manifested in the form of white or brown spots on the enamel of the teeth.
9. Preventive fluoroorose: Prevention of fluorosis includes: a. Fluorine consumption control: It is necessary to monitor the amount of fluorine, which the child receives from various sources (drinking water, toothpaste, rinses for the oral cavity). B. Using a toothpaste with fluorine in accordance with age: For young children, it is recommended to use toothpaste with a lower fluorine (500 PPM). C. Observation of the condition of the teeth: Regular visits to the dentist will help identify signs of fluorosis at an early stage.

E. Magnesium:

1. Role in the body: Magnesium is involved in more than 300 biochemical reactions in the body, including the regulation of muscle function, nervous conduction, heart rhythm, blood glucose and blood pressure. Magnesium is also necessary for the formation of bone tissue and the absorption of calcium.
2. Sources of magnesium: Magnesium is found in many foods such as green leafy vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes, whole grain products, avocados and dark chocolate.
3. Magnesium deficiency: Magnesium deficiency can lead to muscle cramps, weakness, fatigue, irritability, heart rhythm and decrease in bone density.
4. Recommended doses: The recommended daily dose of magnesium for children varies depending on age: a. 0-6 months: 30 мг b. 7-12 months: 75 мг c. 1-3 years: 80 мг d. 4-8 years: 130 мг e. 9-13 years: 240 Мг f. 14-18 years: 410 mg (for boys) and 360 mg (for girls)
5. Magnesium drugs: In some cases, especially with a deficiency of magnesium or an increased need for it, magnesium preparations may be required. Magnesium preparations are available in various forms, such as magnesium oxide, magnesium citrate and magnesium glycinate.
6. Excess magnesium: Excess magnesium can lead to diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and decreased blood pressure. Therefore, it is important to observe the recommended doses of magnesium and not exceed them without consulting a doctor.

F. Vitamin K:

1. Role in the body: Vitamin K plays an important role in blood coagulation and the formation of bone tissue. It is involved in the synthesis of proteins necessary for the mineralization of bones.
2. Sources of vitamin K: Vitamin K is contained in green leafy vegetables (spinach, broccoli, cabbage), vegetable oils, some fruits and berries.
3. Vitamin K deficiency: Vitamin K deficiency can lead to impaired blood coagulation, increasing the risk of bleeding and a decrease in bone density.
4. Recommended doses: The recommended daily dose of vitamin K for children varies depending on age: a. 0-6 months: 2 mcg b. 7-12 months: 2,5 mcg c. 1-3 years: 30 mcg d. 4-8 years: 55 Mkg e. 9-13 years: 60 mkg f. 14-18 years: 75 μg
5. Vitamin K for newborns: Newborn children are usually administered vitamin K immediately after birth to prevent bleeding.

G. Vitamin C:

1. Role in the body: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that protects the cells from damage by free radicals. It also participates in the synthesis of collagen – protein necessary for the formation of bones, skin and blood vessels.
2. Sources of vitamin C: Vitamin C is contained in citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, grapefruits), berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries), vegetables (bell pepper, broccoli, tomatoes) and other products.
3. Vitamin C deficiency: Vitamin C deficiency can lead to scurvy – a disease that is characterized by weakness, fatigue, bleeding of the gums, tooth loss and wound healing.
4. Recommended doses: The recommended daily dose of vitamin C for children varies depending on age: a. 1-3 years: 15 мг b. 4-8 years: 25 мг c. 9-13 years: 45 мг d. 14-18 years: 75 mg (for boys) and 65 mg (for girls)
5. Vitamin C drugs: In some cases, especially with a deficiency of vitamin C or increased need for it, it may require intake of vitamin S.

III. Nutrition for healthy bones and teeth in children

A. Balanced diet:

1. Variety of products: It is important to provide the child with a balanced diet that includes all the necessary nutrients. The diet should include products from all food groups: fruits, vegetables, grain products, protein products and dairy products.
2. Calcium products: Include products rich in calcium in the child’s diet, such as dairy products, green leafy vegetables, fish with bones and enriched products.
3. Products rich in vitamin D: Include products containing vitamin D in the child’s diet, such as oily fish, egg yolk, mushrooms and enriched products.
4. Sugar consumption restriction: Limit the consumption of sugar and sweet drinks, as they can contribute to the development of caries and a decrease in calcium assimilation.
5. Healthy snacks: Offer your child healthy snacks between meals, such as fruits, vegetables, nuts and yogurt.

B. Examples of useful products:

1. Dairy products: Milk, yogurt and cheese are excellent sources of calcium, vitamin D and phosphorus.
2. Green sheet vegetables: Broccoli, spinach and cabbage contain calcium, vitamin K and other important nutrients.
3. Fat fish: Salmon, tuna and sardines are rich in vitamin D, calcium and omega-3 fatty acids.
4. Eggs: Egg yolk contains vitamin D and other important nutrients.
5. Nuts and seeds: Nuts and seeds contain calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and other important nutrients.
6. Legumes: Beans, lentils and peas contain calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and other important nutrients.
7. Whole grain products: All -grain products contain magnesium, phosphorus and other important nutrients.
8. Fruits and vegetables: Fruits and vegetables contain vitamin C, potassium and other important nutrients.

C. Meding recommendations depending on age:

1. Breast-feeding: Breastfeeding is the best way for babies for babies. Breast milk contains all the necessary nutrients, including calcium and vitamin D.
2. Feed: After 6 months, you can begin to introduce complementary foods. As the first feeding, you can use vegetable and fruit puree, cereals and meat puree.
3. Baby food: Children’s nutrition should be balanced and contain all the necessary nutrients.
4. Full nutrition: After a year, the child should receive a good nutrition, including products from all food groups.

IV. Other factors affecting bone and teeth health

A. Physical activity:

1. Influence on bone tissue: Physical activity, especially exercises with loading (running, jumping, games with the ball), stimulates bone formation and increases bone density.
2. Recommended types of activity: It is recommended that children engage in physical activity at least 60 minutes a day.
3. Age features: Types of physical activity must correspond to the age and physical capabilities of the child.

B. Oral cavity:

1. Tooth brushing: Brush your teeth must be twice a day after meals toothpaste with fluorine.
2. Using tooth thread: It is necessary to use the dental thread daily to remove the denture from the interdental spaces.
3. Visiting a dentist: It is necessary to visit the dentist regularly, at least twice a year, for a preventive examination and professional brushing of teeth.
4. The correct technique of brushing teeth: Teach the child with the correct technique of teeth to effectively remove the plaque and prevent the development of caries.

C. Genetic factors:

1. Heredity: Genetic factors play an important role in the formation of bone tissue and teeth. If parents have problems with bones or teeth, then the child may also have an increased risk of developing these problems.
2. Consultation with a doctor: If the child has a hereditary predisposition to diseases of bones or teeth, it is necessary to consult a doctor to develop an individual prevention and treatment plan.

D. Diseases and medicines:

1. Influence on bones and teeth: Some diseases, such as diabetes mellitus, thyroid diseases and kidney disease, can adversely affect bone tissue and teeth.
2. Medicines: Some drugs, such as corticosteroids, can reduce bone density and increase the risk of osteoporosis.
3. Consultation with a doctor: If the child takes any medication, it is necessary to consult a doctor about possible side effects on bones and teeth.

E. Sunlight:

1. Vitamin D: Staying in the sun promotes the synthesis of vitamin D in the skin.
2. Recommended time for staying in the sun: It is recommended to spend at least 15-20 minutes a day in the sun, especially in the summer months.
3. Sun burns protection: It is necessary to protect the skin from sunburn with sunscreen, hat and clothing.

V. Conclusion

Providing a sufficient amount of vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin D, calcium and fluorine, plays a key role in the formation of strong bones and teeth in children. Balanced nutrition, physical activity, proper oral hygiene and regular visits to the doctor and dentist help maintain the health of bones and teeth throughout life. If necessary, consult a doctor about taking vitamin additives.

VI. Useful links and resources

• American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
• National Health Institutes (NIH)
• American Dental Association (ADA)
• The Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation

VII. Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

• Do I need to give a child vitamin supplements? Vitamin additives can be necessary if the child does not receive a sufficient amount of vitamins and minerals from food. Before taking vitamin additives, you need to consult a doctor.
• What are the most useful products for bones and teeth? Dairy products, green leafy vegetables, fatty fish, eggs, nuts and seeds.
• How to teach a child to brush your teeth? Start brushing your child’s teeth from an early age, use toothpaste with a pleasant taste and make brushing funny and interesting tooths.
• How to prevent the development of caries in a child? Limit the consumption of sugar and sweet drinks, regularly brush your teeth and visit the dentist.
• What if a child has a deficiency of vitamin D? Contact the doctor to prescribe treatment and correction of the diet.