How is Calcium Vital to the Body, especially Teeth?

Teeth are made of calcium

Calcium is the first thing we think we think of when we think about minerals. Calcium is the most prevalent mineral in out body, making up about two percent of our body weight. An adult has about 1.2kg of calcium in the body, 99% of this amount is in our bones and teeth. Calcium is vital for strong bones and healthy teeth, the transmission of nerve impulses, blood clotting, and the regulation of blood pressure and muscle contraction.

Although the major part of the body’s calcium is in bones, the most important functions of calcium are in the maintenance of muscle contractility and responses to hormones and neurotransmitters. To maintain these essential regulatory functions, bone calcium is mobilized in deficiency so and to ensure that the plasma and intercellular concentrations are kept within a strictly controlled range.

Many factors affect our calcium status. Vitamin D enhances the absorption of calcium and too much vitamin D combined with excess calcium intake can increase the risk of forming kidney stones. A high protein or high sugar diet can deplete calcium reserves in the body.


Because calcium is so important in keeping the human body functioning properly, it is important component of the daily diet of all people. It is especially important for children and pregnant women because it promotes the growth and heath of bones and teeth.  Foods rich in calcium include cheese, milk, yogurt and leafy greens such as spinach.