Vitamin D offers several health benefits, so doctors, nutritionists, and other health professionals often encourage patients to get enough of it. However, it is often neglected in discussions about dental implants, even though it can be vitally important for the success of this treatment. How is that true? Continue reading below to learn more about the role of vitamin D in dental implant success.
Vitamin D and Bone Health
Vitamin D is important for maintaining bone health because it facilitates the absorption and utilization of other key nutrients, including phosphorus and calcium, which are integral to bone composition. A deficiency in vitamin D is linked to a heightened risk of osteoporosis and bone fractures.
Strong bones are crucial for the success of dental implants. Following the insertion of implants into the jaw, the bone undergoes remodeling, meaning that it grows around and bonds with the implants. This process, called osseointegration, has a higher likelihood of success in patients with sufficient levels of vitamin D.
Vitamin D and Immune Function
Vitamin D is one of the nutrients that supports the immune system, so it can assist your body in defending against harmful microorganisms. It even aids in the fight against harmful oral bacteria, meaning that it could potentially reduce the risk of infection in the gums around dental implants. Since infection is a leading cause of dental implant failure, this function of vitamin D is especially helpful.
Tips for Getting More Vitamin D
Sadly, vitamin D deficiency is one of the most common nutrient deficiencies in the U.S. How can you get more of it? Here are some practical tips:
- Soak up some sun. The human body can make its own vitamin D, but this process requires that your skin be exposed to sunlight. For most individuals, spending as little as 10 to 30 minutes in the midday sun several times per week is sufficient for adequate vitamin D production. Individuals with darker skin may require slightly more sun exposure compared to those with fair skin. (Remember that SPF can interfere with vitamin D production, so it is okay to go outside without sunscreen for a few minutes at a time!)
- Consider using a UV lamp. Due to inclement weather or a busy schedule, it can sometimes be difficult to spend enough time outside for the body to produce an adequate amount of vitamin D. As an alternative, you might sit near a lamp that emits UVB rays.
- Adjust your diet. Egg yolks, fatty fish (including salmon, sardines, and tune), fortified dairy products, and mushrooms are excellent dietary sources of vitamin D.
- Start taking a supplement. There are quite a few vitamin D supplements available on the market. It is best to choose a product that contains vitamin D3 (as opposed to D2). Additionally, thoroughly research different products so you can be sure that you are using a brand that has a reputation for quality.
Vitamin D can allow your restored smile to thrive! Making minor changes to your daily routine can help maximize its benefits.
Meet the Practice
Piney Point Dental Implant Center is proud to be home to three highly skilled oral surgeons. We offer a range of dental implant services. If you would like to replace your missing teeth, we will be happy to advise you on how you can support your treatment’s long-term success. To learn more about how we may be able to serve you, contact our Houston office at 713-597-7340.