Studies show vitamin D acts as a resistant to dental caries. Researchers found very less incidence of tooth cavities in the children who are more exposed to sunlight than those who are not so. Sunlight is a natural source of vitamin D. This vitamin is essential as it helps in absorbing calcium from the food we eat. If vitamin D intake is low, calcium absorption is lower and the bones and teeth become weak.
Importance of Vitamin D in oral health
Vitamin D is important in order to make calcium useful to the body. Without vitamin D, calcium cannot get absorbed as vitamin D helps calcium absorbed from food we eat. The following points make you understand the importance of vitamin D in oral health.
Vitamin D and periodontal disease
Periodontal disease, an advanced stage of gum disease leads to weakening of jawbone that supports teeth. This results in bleeding and swelling of gums, which can even lead to tooth loss. Vitamin D is very important as it helps in keeping teeth attached to their sockets. People who have deficiency of vitamin D are more likely to have periodontal disease. This is because, vitamin D in early stage of gum disease helps in reducing gum swelling as it causes anti-swelling effects, and thus reduces the chances of disease getting worse.
Vitamin D and strong teeth
Most of the calcium present in bones and teeth is in moving state. If the calcium level is low, it gets reabsorbed in blood and is put back in teeth and bones if the levels are high. This entire mechanism is regulated by vitamin D. It is for this reason that vitamin D is important to make calcium effective.
Vitamin D and kids’ teeth
There are fewer tooth cavities in children who get enough vitamin D. Children need more calcium for growth and development of strong teeth and bones. Without vitamin D, calcium is unable to play its role effectively. Lower level of vitamin D in children can even lead to improper development of tooth enamel.
Thus vitamin D plays an important role in maintaining your oral health. See physicians if need be in case you are going to use vitamin D supplements.