HEALTH

Toothache? Check your Vitamin D

Ensuring adequate vitamin D levels through diet, sunlight, and supplements (if necessary) is crucial for maintaining strong teeth and a healthy smile.

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Vitamin D, often called the “sunshine vitamin,” plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health. While it’s primarily associated with bone health, researchers suggest a strong connection between vitamin D deficiency and dental problems. If you are experiencing a toothache, it is a good idea to check your vitamin D levels, as deficiency in vitamin D can contribute to weakened teeth and increased susceptibility, potentially leading to pain. Prof Dr Nandagopal vura, BDS MDS FDSRCPS (United Kingdom), Consultant oral & maxillofacial surgeon, Apollo Dental Clinics, Madhapur, Hyderabad shares all you need to know

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Why is it important?

Vitamin D is essential for tooth health because it plays a critical role in maintaining strong teeth and overall oral health. Here’s why it’s important:

  1. Enhances calcium absorption Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium, a key mineral for building and maintaining strong tooth enamel and bone. Without enough calcium, teeth can become weaker and more prone to decay and damage.
  2. Supports Bone Health Teeth are anchored in the jawbone, which requires vitamin D to maintain its strength and density. Deficiency in vitamin D can lead to weakened jawbones, increasing the risk of tooth loss and gum disease. In children, vitamin D deficiency can hinder proper tooth development, leading to delayed eruption and weaker teeth.
  3. Boosts Immune Function Vitamin D supports the immune system, helping the body fight off oral infections, such as gum disease or abscesses. A healthy immune system reduces the risk of periodontal disease, which can affect the structures that support teeth. A deficiency can impair the body’s ability to fight off infections, including those that affect the gums.
  4. Promotes Enamel Formation in Developing Teeth Vitamin D is essential for the proper absorption of calcium and phosphorus, two minerals crucial for strong tooth enamel. In children, vitamin D is crucial for proper development of teeth and enamel. Deficiency during childhood can lead to enamel hypoplasia (weaker enamel) and increased susceptibility to cavities.
  5. Reduces Risk of Gum Disease Vitamin D has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the gums. Impact on Teeth: Lower inflammation helps protect against gingivitis and periodontitis.

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It is important to note that these things or symptoms can occur when there is a substantial deficiency of Vitamin D. One needs to be cautious about these signs and get the Vitamin D tested immediately:

• Weak and brittle teeth

• Increased cavities and tooth sensitivity

• Gum problems such as swelling and bleeding

• Bone pain or weakness in severe cases.

Ensuring adequate vitamin D levels through diet, sunlight, and supplements (if necessary) is crucial for maintaining strong teeth and a healthy smile.

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