Phosphorus is an essential element for healthy teeth. One of the main phosphorous roles is to help develop bones and teeth (Medline).

Phosphorous is a core element of life through our genes. Phosphorus is an integral part of our DNA and RNA. Both DNA and RNA are some of the body's primary sources of energy.*

Phosphorus is generally found in numerous tubes of toothpaste and mouthwashes. 

Here's a closer look at the benefits of phosphorus for teeth and why you should ensure this important nutrient is a part of your oral care routine.

The importance of phosphorus for teeth

Phosphorus is a mineral that may help form hydroxyapatite, which is a key component of tooth enamel. Much like fluoride, hydroxyapatite may play a role in reducing dentine hypersensitivity (study).* 

Hydroxyapatite is also one of the critical constituents of the mineral part of our bones and teeth (study).* Furthermore, nano-hydroxyapatite may also play a role in restorative dentistry (study).*

A study also showed that combined compounds of phosphate and calcium could provide enamel remineralization (study).* 

Phosphorous may help give teeth their strength and hardness, which helps protect against tooth decay because it may help defend and restore tooth enamel.* A study showed that phosphopeptide could help promote teeth remineralization.*

When combined with calcium, another important mineral for strong teeth and bones, phosphorous may form crystalline calcium phosphate. *

Phosphorous may also promote the role calcium can play for our bones. Phosphorus is needed for normal physiological function (study).* It is also needed to help balance and use other vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D, calcium, iodine, magnesium, and zinc (Mount Sinai).

How to get more phosphorus

You can get more phosphorus by eating foods rich in this mineral, such as meats, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, nuts, and seeds. You can also find phosphorus in some dark leafy greens, such as kale and collard greens. Phosphorus is also added to some foods, such as breakfast cereals and baked goods, or to some supplements such as teeth and gums vitamins. 

The bioavailability of phosphorus from food is usually high and is readily absorbed in the small intestine (study). Deficiency in phosphorous is relatively rare.* 

You can also learn more about the role of zinc on teeth and collagen on teeth.

As always, talk to your doctor before taking any supplements and health & gums vitamins. Get professional advice if you think you might need a phosphorous supplement or are already taking one to ensure you're not exceeding the amounts you may need.

If you are concerned about getting enough phosphorus in your diet, talk to your doctor or dentist. You can also find toothpaste and mouthwash containing fluoride and other important nutrients for oral health.