Potassium
Likelihood in at-risk patientsModerate
Likelihood of deficiency within an at-risk group, not the general population.
Evidence confidenceModerate
Strength of the peer-reviewed evidence.
Food sources
Bananas, Potatoes, Leafy vegetables, Legumes, Dairy
Typical intake: 2,600–3,400 mg/day for most adults (AI).
Upper limit: No UL from food (kidneys regulate it); supplements/renal impairment can cause dangerous hyperkalemia.
Dental & oral effects of deficiency
No well-established oral-specific sign of deficiency on file.
Associated with deficiency
- Hypokalemia: Muscle weakness, irregular heartbeat, and elevated blood pressure risk from low potassium.
Dental & oral effects of surplus / excess
No well-established oral-specific effect of excess intake on file.
General toxicity (not necessarily oral-specific)
- Hyperkalemia: Cardiac arrhythmia risk from excess potassium, almost always from supplements or impaired renal clearance rather than diet.
Sources
- Potassium: Health Professional Fact Sheet. National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements. NIH Office of Dietary Supplements, 2026.
- A Prescription for Change: Food as Medicine & the Vital Role of Nutrition in Patient Care. teethFirst. Continuing education course material, 2025.