Vitamins are essential for several functions, including oral health. A deficiency of vitamins in the body can lead to several dental issues. They can also affect the health of the gums.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is an essential vitamin for oral health, and it’s incredibly easy to get an adequate amount from your diet or sunlight. Your body uses vitamin D to absorb calcium and phosphorous, which are essential for healthy teeth and bones. If your body doesn’t get enough vitamin D, your teeth can become weak and develop cavities. You can also get more of it by eating fortified cereals and fatty fish like salmon. It’s also a good idea to step outside for some sun, which will increase your vitamin D levels naturally!
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is an antioxidant vitamin. It helps the body resist infections and also helps repair tissues in the body. This vitamin is crucial for the growth and development of bones and teeth, as well as the maintenance of mucous membranes. It also plays a role in ensuring that the gums stay healthy. In fact, vitamin A deficiency can result in gum disease.
The lack of this vitamin can lead to a dry mouth, which can allow bacteria in the mouth to flourish. This can lead to the development of cavities and gum disease. In addition to maintaining the health of teeth and gums, vitamin A also supports the immune system and protects the eyes.
People do not need to take supplements to get enough of this vitamin. Good sources of vitamin A include milk, eggs, cheese, yogurt, carrots, spinach, mangoes, broccoli, red peppers, sweet potatoes, and more.
Vitamin C
When it comes to your oral health, vitamin C is the first line of defense against harmful bacteria like gingivitis. As an antioxidant, it prevents cell damage and fights infections by destroying free radicals that can weaken teeth and gums. Most of the benefits of consuming vitamin C are due to its antioxidant properties that help fight inflammation and infection.
Foods rich in Vitamin C include oranges, kale, broccoli, papaya, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, tomatoes, strawberries, pineapple, and kiwis. While the body does produce its own supply of vitamin C, it can also be found in supplements.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that’s known to protect skin from UV rays and pollution, but it’s also essential for maintaining gum health. This vitamin works as an antioxidant in the body that fights free radicals and helps to prevent gum diseases, including gingivitis and periodontitis. It also protects cells from damage that can lead to cancer. It’s available in supplement form or can be found in nuts like almonds, peanuts, sunflower seeds, cashews, and hazelnuts, as well as in spinach, kale, sweet potatoes, and some other dark leafy green vegetables.
In addition to maintaining gum health, vitamin E is also great for your hair and skin as well. It helps to retain moisture in hair and has anti-inflammatory effects for the skin as well. It’s a great vitamin to add to your diet because it’s easy to find and full of health benefits!
Do you have questions about your oral health or dental care in general? Visit Newport Smiles Dental Spa at 570 W 19th St, Costa Mesa, CA 92627, or call (949) 642-1033.
