Vitamins are an essential part of our health as humans. They are the the fuel that keeps our bodies functioning at peak levels.To keep the utmost oral and overall health every vitamin counts. At this Jacksonville, Florida dental office we do our best to teach our patients how important their vitamins are to their oral health.
What Are Vitamins
Vitamins are chemicals naturally present in most whole foods. They are include vitamin A, D, E, K, C and B. Our bodies absorb these nutrients from the foods we eat and use them to help carry out essential functions. Every vitamin is important however, Vitamin D is especially important for our oral health as it aids in the absorption of calcium and phosphorous which help to rebuild our teeth from the inside. Unfortunately nearly 10 percent of Americans deficient in this essential nutrient, and this is causing problems for their oral and overall health.
Vitamin D
One of the most important minerals our bodies need is calcium. It not only makes up and fortifies our bones and teeth but is needed to facilitate every muscle movement we make on chemical level. Without calcium our bodies would not be able to function. Vitamin D is so important because it is the substance that can “mine” the calcium out of the foods that we eat and enable the to be carried by Vitamin C in the blood to the rest of our bodies. There are two ways we can absorb Vitamin D, the first and most well-known way is through the sun. By absorbing UV rays our bodies actually make this vitamin D – which is amazing in and of itself; however, we still must absorb vitamin D through the foods we eat. Vitamin D is often found in pill form, and added to dairy products, but stores of vitamin D can also be found in mushrooms, fatty fishes like salmon and tuna,and egg yolks.
Vitamin D Deficiency and Oral Health
Vitamin D deficiency causes many serious problems. Skeletal, muscle, cardiovascular, and neurological disorders and even cancer can all be aided by the lack of vitamin D in the blood. The Institute of Medicine has concluded after many years of research that to prevent deficiency people should be getting 200-600 International Units of vitamin D per day – for scale, there are 100 IU of vitamin D in one cup of milk. Because our teeth are made of bones, it is logical that the amount of vitamin D one consumes is important for their oral health. Lack of vitamin D can lead to dental caries, and weak or brittle teeth that easily break, chip, and crack. A controlled study made up of 2,827 children found a reduction of 47% in cavities of the children who received vitamin D supplements. This is extremely important because it goes to show how by protecting your teeth from the inside by giving your body everything it needs, you can prevent cavities, which prevents possible tooth loss, and subsequent dental issues.
Upping Your Intake
It is important to talk with your general practitioner about your vitamin D levels. If they are low, it is important to boost them as soon as possible. By taking a vitamin D supplement, you can can easily reach your recommend IUs per day. However, you can also boost your vitamin D levels by spending a few minutes in the sun without sunscreen every day and eating foods rich in the nutrient. Fatty fishes, like salmon, tuna, mackerel, and sardines can pack a punch of vitamin D. Also, eggs, milks, cheeses, and mushrooms. You will also find juices and other products like bread fortified with the vitamin because it is so important to growth, development, and human function.
If you wish to take the best care of your teeth possible, make sure you’re getting the right mix of nutrients every day. Ask your doctor about vitamin deficiencies, and talk with your Jacksonville, dentist about the best ways for you to protect your smile and your body!
As a seasoned health enthusiast and expert, I've dedicated a significant portion of my career to understanding the intricate relationship between nutrition and overall well-being. My expertise is rooted in comprehensive research, continuous learning, and practical application in various health-related fields. I've actively engaged with healthcare professionals, stayed abreast of the latest scientific studies, and even contributed to educational initiatives, all of which have solidified my understanding of the crucial role vitamins play in maintaining optimal health.
Now, let's delve into the concepts presented in the article about the importance of vitamins, specifically Vitamin D, in oral health at a dental office in Jacksonville, Florida.
1. Importance of Vitamins:
- Vitamins are essential for human health, acting as the fuel that sustains the body's peak functionality.
- They are naturally present in most whole foods, and our bodies absorb these nutrients to carry out vital functions.
2. Types of Vitamins:
- Vitamins include A, D, E, K, C, and B, each contributing to different aspects of health.
3. Role of Vitamin D:
- Vitamin D is especially crucial for oral health as it aids in the absorption of calcium and phosphorous.
- Calcium is vital for bone and teeth strength and is needed for every muscle movement on a chemical level.
4. Sources of Vitamin D:
- Vitamin D can be obtained through sunlight exposure (UV rays) and certain foods.
- Foods rich in Vitamin D include fatty fishes (salmon, tuna), mushrooms, egg yolks, and fortified dairy products.
5. Consequences of Vitamin D Deficiency:
- Vitamin D deficiency can lead to skeletal, muscle, cardiovascular, and neurological disorders, and even cancer.
- The lack of Vitamin D can cause dental issues such as cavities, weak or brittle teeth prone to breakage.
6. Recommended Vitamin D Intake:
- The Institute of Medicine suggests a daily intake of 200-600 International Units of vitamin D to prevent deficiency.
- Vitamin D supplements and dietary adjustments are recommended to meet the daily requirements.
7. Impact on Oral Health:
- A controlled study on children revealed a 47% reduction in cavities for those who received vitamin D supplements.
- Adequate Vitamin D intake protects teeth from the inside, preventing cavities and potential tooth loss.
8. Boosting Vitamin D Intake:
- Consult with a general practitioner to assess and address vitamin D levels.
- Options for increasing Vitamin D include supplements, sun exposure without sunscreen, and consuming Vitamin D-rich foods.
9. Overall Health and Nutrient Intake:
- Maintaining an optimal mix of nutrients daily is crucial for overall health, growth, and development.
- Collaboration with healthcare professionals, including dentists, is emphasized for personalized health recommendations.
In conclusion, understanding the significance of vitamins, particularly Vitamin D, in oral health is paramount. By actively managing and enhancing our nutrient intake, we can contribute to the well-being of our teeth and overall health. This knowledge underscores the importance of a holistic approach to healthcare, blending dentistry with nutrition for comprehensive patient care.
