In both children and adults, chronically low calcium intake can undermine the mineralization of teeth and supporting bone, contributing to enamel hypoplasia, root resorption, and loss of alveolar bone that stabilizes the teeth. Epidemiologic studies have linked lower dietary calcium and dairy intake with higher rates of periodontitis, tooth mobility, and tooth loss, especially in older adults and postmenopausal women. The encouraging piece is that maintaining adequate calcium (alongside vitamin D and good oral hygiene) appears to support healthier periodontal bone and may reduce the risk of dental defects and tooth loss over time. This medication is commonly used for Hypertension.
Nishida M, Grossi SG, Dunford RG, Ho AW, Trevisan M, Genco RJ. Calcium and the risk for periodontal disease. J Periodontol. 2000 Jul;71(7):1057-66. Nascimento GG, Leite FRM, Gonzalez-Chica DA, Peres KG, Peres MA. Dietary vitamin D and calcium and periodontitis: A population-based study. Front Nutr. 2022 Dec 22;9:1016763. Miley DD, Garcia MN, Hildebolt CF, Shannon WD, Couture RA, Anderson Spearie CL, Dixon DA, Langenwalter EM, Mueller C, Civitelli R. Cross-sectional study of vitamin D and calcium supplementation effects on chronic periodontitis. J Periodontol. 2009 Sep;80(9):1433-9. Nishida, M., Grossi, S.G., Dunford, R.G., Ho, A.W., Trevisan, M. and Genco, R.J. (2000), Calcium and the Risk For Periodontal Disease. Journal of Periodontology, 71: 1057-1066.
Some side effects may be linked to nutrient depletion caused by this medication.
Studies suggest that Felodipine, a type of calcium channel blocker (CCB), may increase the excretion of calcium in the urine. While the long-term effects on bone health are unclear, some healthcare professionals suggest calcium supplementation for patients taking felodipine, especially those at higher risk of osteoporosis.
Research suggests that Felodipine, a type of calcium channel blocker (CCB), may increase the excretion of magnesium in the urine. This can potentially lead to magnesium deficiency. Studies have shown an increase in fractional excretion of magnesium following felodipine treatment, and the drug may also alter how magnesium moves across red blood cell membranes. Therefore supplementation with magnesium should be considered when on this therapy.
An increased excretion of potassium can occur in people taking calcium channel blocker drugs like felodipine. Supplementation may need to be considered if blood levels of potassium are low.