Role of Vitamin D in Preventing Tooth Decay

Vitamin D is needed for strong bones and teeth. It enables your body to properly absorb and use calcium, which helps remineralize bone and teeth. According to a recent study published in the “Nutrition Reviews,” vitamin D may also help your body fight cavities, although researchers have not yet identified why.

The study included data from 24 clinical trials published over a 60-year period, and the information was gleaned from 3,000 children enrolled in these trials. According to the study author, healthy vitamin D levels may reduce the incidence of tooth decay by as much as 50 percent. Children with low vitamin D levels are at a higher risk of tooth decay and may also teethe later.

Vitamin D levels have been dropping in recent years, where children are increasingly being diagnosed with tooth decay and developing cavities. Increasing vitamin D intake can be a good choice for you and your family. Studies have linked low vitamin D levels with not just tooth decay but also with a higher risk of Alzheimer’s disease, cancer, heart disease and depression.

Your body can make its own vitamin D through sun exposure. If you have fair skin, you only need about 10 minutes of unprotected sun on most of your skin, such as what would be exposed when wearing shorts and a t-shirt. If you have darker skin, you may need to spend a bit more time to ensure your body absorbs enough sun. You can also increase your intake by choosing vitamin D-rich foods, such as tuna canned in water, liver, eggs, cheese and fortified milk and juice.

Call us today to learn more about how vitamin D can help you avoid cavities and a root canal treatment or to schedule your appointment.

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