Can Vitamin D Affect Oral Health?

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Sunny smiles begin with the 'sunshine vitamin', otherwise called vitamin D. Despite its name, vitamin D is not a vitamin but a hormone. Our skin cells naturally produce vitamin D with the help of sunlight. It is quite ironic to think that there is an ongoing pandemic of vitamin D deficiency despite global warming and an abundance of sunlight. Around 1 billion people worldwide are vitamin D deficient and suffer consequentially.

Apart from being known as the best vitamin for bone health, the benefits of vitamin D are omnipresent. Similar to its other health benefits, vitamin D for teeth and gums is equally important.

The Uses Of Vitamin D For Teeth And Gums

Here are some of the vital uses of vitamin D for teeth and gums that keep your oral health perfect:

Better absorption of calcium
Calcium-binding protein, a protein that promotes the uptake of calcium from the intestine into the bloodstream, is abundantly produced in the presence of vitamin D. This protein helps transport calcium across the intestinal lining, allowing it to be absorbed more efficiently. Additionally, vitamin D promotes calcium reabsorption and inhibits excessive urinary calcium loss by promoting the activation of calcium transporters in the kidneys.

Keeps the jaw bones strong and healthy
When the skin cells are exposed to the sun's UV rays, vitamin D3 is created in the body. The 1,25-dihydroxy vitamin D, or vitamin D3, is then produced by further processing this initial form of vitamin D produced in the skin by the liver and kidneys. This substance strengthens the bones by facilitating the absorption of calcium and phosphorus.

Assists in tooth bud development in childhood
Vitamin D is essential for proper tooth development in children, ensuring the formation of healthy teeth and preventing dental abnormalities.

Maintains the enamel health
Vitamin D promotes the absorption of calcium and phosphate, both of which are necessary minerals for enamel formation and strength. Additionally, it supports remineralization processes and prevents demineralization by regulating the mineral balance in tooth enamel. A sufficient intake of vitamin D helps to keep the enamel healthy and prevents tooth decay and enamel erosion.

Prevents cavities
Vitamin D's role in strengthening tooth enamel and promoting oral health can reduce the risk of developing cavities.

Strengthens the gums
Vitamin D maintains gum health by reducing inflammation and promoting the integrity of cells in the gum tissue. It helps regulate the immune response in the gums, preventing excessive inflammation and supporting faster healing of gum inflammation. Vitamin D also promotes antimicrobial activity, helping fight off bacteria and infections that can contribute to gum disease.

Prevents dry mouth
Vitamin D helps prevent dry mouth by promoting the production and secretion of saliva. It regulates salivary gland function, ensuring optimal saliva production and maintaining a healthy oral environment.

Aids in faster healing of dental wounds
By boosting immunity and maintaining the tissue integrity of the gums, adequate levels of Vitamin D can support the healing process after oral surgeries, reducing the risk of complications and promoting a faster recovery.

Boosts immunity
Vitamin D supports a robust immune system, which can help fight off oral infections and promote overall oral health.

Conclusion:

The Power Of Vitamin D For Teeth And Gums
A healthy body is incomplete without a healthy mouth. What could be better than a vitamin source that can take care of both? The modern generation is unquestionably vitamin D deficient. Our long work hours and life hustles barely spare us time to soak up the sun and produce vitamin D naturally. Hence, make it a point to eat foods rich in vitamin D like dry fruits, beans, nuts, fish, and dairy products. You can also consider a gluten-free, no-preservative, no-yeast supplement of pure vitamin D3 for added benefits.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.