Vitamin D is incredibly important for strong teeth and bones. It helps you absorb calcium and phosphate properly, which help keep your gums, teeth, and bones strong and healthy. Here is all you need to know about the role of vitamin D in oral health!
Why People Are Deficient in Vitamin D After Winter
Sun exposure is a primary natural source of vitamin D for most of us. During the winter, especially in colder and northern latitude states like Minnesota, people tend to spend less time outdoors and therefore aren’t exposed to sunlight. And even when we do spend time outside, UVB rays, which trigger the production of Vitamin D in your skin, are usually too weak to stimulate enough vitamin D production. We are also more likely to be bundled up in hats, scarves, and jackets. All of this leaves little opportunity for enough sun exposure.
The Role of Vitamin D in Our Oral Health
In order to absorb calcium and phosphorus properly, we need to be getting enough vitamin D. Here are some ways low vitamin D levels affect us:
Weaker Teeth Enamel
When we are not absorbing enough vitamin D and therefore enough calcium, we are at a higher risk of weak teeth enamel. This means we have an increased risk of cavities, and we’re more likely to experience tooth sensitivities to hot and cold food and beverages.
Gum Inflammation
In addition to weak enamel, we are also more at risk for gum inflammation.
Slower Healing
Having low levels of vitamin D can make it harder for your body to recover and heal from infections or dental procedures. Vitamin D helps support this healing process.
How to Find Vitamin D This Spring
Go Outside!
The best, natural source of vitamin D is sunlight exposure. Usually, spending 10-30 minutes outside each day will help you maintain adequate levels of vitamin D.
Food
Eating foods high in vitamin D will help you stay healthy this spring. These food sources include fatty fish, eggs, dairy, mushrooms, and foods fortified with vitamin D.
Supplements
If you find that you’re not eating enough foods that are rich in vitamin D or spending enough time outside, it’s important to take a supplement. There are vitamin D supplements you can find at places like Costco or your local pharmacy that will help you get enough vitamin D in your diet.
Conclusion
This spring, we encourage you to spend time outside and enjoy the sunshine! Who knew it was so good for your oral health, too!
About Krengel Dental, Modern Dentist in St. Louis Park and Bloomington, MN
At Krengel Dental, weโre not your average dentist. We do everything we can to help your smile shine. If youโre looking for the best modern dentist in St. Louis Park, MN, we would love to help you. Not in St. Louis Park, MN but live nearby? Be sure to check out our Bloomington location.ย Visit ourย contact pageย to book an appointment with us.
