Ask A Scientist Chemistry Archive

name         Laura J.
status       student
age          12

Question -   How does milk effect the strength of your teeth?
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Tooth enamel is a complex calcium phosphate mineral called apatite, calcium is continuously 
gained and lost by this mineral for many reasons, so it must be replenished. Milk is a good 
source of calcium. Part of the process of absorbing calcium involves vitamin D. For this 
reason, milk and some other foods are "fortified" with vitamin D to make the calcium absorption
in teeth (and other bones) for efficient.

Vince Calder
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Laura,

Milk contains the mineral calcium.  Calcium is an especially important nutrient for a wide 
range of living organisms.  Human teeth and bones contain calcium which helps give them 
strength.  I hope that this helps answer your question.

Sincerely,

Bob Trach
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