Mr. Sun, Please Shine Down on Me!

We’re in the midst of summer and what’s hotter than Vitamin D? While I would always urge everyone to use high-SPF sunscreen and to judiciously expose themselves to the sun, there are tons of teeth-related benefits to upping your Vitamin D. Let’s explore.

It’s been well established that there is a strong link between periodontal disease (aka gum disease) and Vitamin D. The details of this link are still a mystery, but we know that lack of Vitamin D = greater risk of gum disease. The link lies within the bones. As you may already know,  your teeth are being held in by bone. When there is a deficient amount of Vitamin D, the genes that express gum disease are activated, causing the bones to be come weak and teeth to become loose.

In addition to Vitamin D’s control of these gum-disease-expressing genes, BU Goldman School of Dental Medicine has shown that Vitamin D has an anti-inflammatory effect. Basically, Vitamin D helps reduce the inflammation in your gums which would have (if not stopped) led to gum disease.
On top of all the great benefits for your gums, Vitamin D also keeps your teeth strong by reducing the risk of cavities. In the event that an individual who severely lacks Vitamin D (e.g. rickets), there is an overwhelming increase in cavities (see AAP Article).

Beyond the scope of the mouth, lack of Vitamin D has also been linked to heart disease, osteoarthritis, diabetes, and a multitude of cancers.

Despite the title of this article, there are three main ways you can beef up your Vitamin D.

1. Foods – Mainly, seafoods (e.g. salmon, mackerel, tuna, and cod liver oil) which also contain awesome good-for-your-heart omega-3 fatty acids) and fortified foods such as milk.
2. Supplements – Reliable source of Vitamin D. Make sure that you choose a supplement made with the D3 form (aka cholecalciferol).
3. Sun – Granted, not the most reliable or safe way of achieving your Vitamin D intake but the next time you’re out in the sun, you can smile at the fact that you’re helping your teeth and gums out!

Disclaimer: Before changing your eating habits or supplement intake, please consult with a dentist or physician. And, please, do limit your exposure to the sun.

Best,

Dr. Lynda Tran