A balanced diet is essential for healthy teeth and gums. However, certain vitamins are beneficial for maintaining good oral health. Listed below are the seven essential vitamins for teeth and gums.
Vitamin A
Many vitamin A supplements are made from retinoids. Retinoids are also known as tretinoin, retinol, or retinyl palmitate. These compounds strengthen tooth enamel, making them less likely to decay. They also help prevent gum disease and promote tissue healing when used consistently over time. While topical dosages are available, it is best to get these vitamins from a well-balanced diet. Good sources of vitamin A include sweet potatoes, carrots, nuts, and melons.
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 is required for many bodily functions, such as red blood cell production, serotonin creation, and the metabolism of amino acids. A deficiency of this vitamin will cause anemia. It also plays a critical role in immune functioning.
This vitamin is essential in the production and regeneration of gum tissue, which helps protect your teeth from bacteria and infections. B vitamins are also necessary for the production of collagen, which makes up the connective tissue around teeth.
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B-12 is most well-known for its role in helping the body to create healthy red blood cells, which are responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. But it is also required for a healthy mouth and gums. B-12 deficiency can cause a number of oral problems, including mouth sores, periodontal disease, and even poor digestion. B-12 is found naturally in meat, eggs, and dairy products. It can also be taken in supplement form. It is recommended that adults get at least 2.4 micrograms of vitamin B-12 every day.
Vitamin C
One of the most common vitamins in the nutrition world, vitamin C, can be found in many foods, such as citrus fruits and strawberries. However, it is also very beneficial for the teeth as well!
It is found naturally in saliva and provides a barrier against oral bacteria and plaque accumulation. It also encourages the body to produce collagen, which is a key structural component of gum tissues.
Furthermore, it has been shown to reduce gingivitis symptoms by diminishing inflammation and encouraging tissue repair and healing. Vitamin C may also reduce the symptoms of tooth sensitivity.
Though beneficial, it’s important not to take high doses of vitamin C supplements if you are undergoing dental treatment or have any cavities. In large doses, it can cause upset stomachs or diarrhea.
Overall, adding vitamin C to your diet will help ensure healthy teeth and gums for years to come.
Vitamin D
This vitamin can be found in a variety of foods, including dairy products like cheese, yogurt, milk, and eggs. It can also be found in other foods such as fish, oysters, beef liver, and some mushrooms.
If you aren’t getting enough vitamin D in your diet, however, supplements may be able to help you. Talk to your dentist about taking one!
That’s because vitamin D is essential for strong bones and teeth. It also plays an essential role in building a healthy immune system and promoting optimal oral health. It’s possible that you get plenty of it through your diet, but it’s still important to talk with your dentist to make sure that you’re meeting your needs. This vitamin can also be found in multivitamins and calcium supplements that your dentist may recommend to keep your teeth and bones healthy.
In fact, this vitamin has been shown to improve the health of your gums when taken alongside probiotics. It’s also been shown to reduce gum inflammation, which is a major cause of gum disease. Vitamin D may also protect against gingivitis and the buildup of plaque on your teeth. Taking this vitamin regularly can help reduce your chances of developing tooth decay or cavities as well.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant that helps protect against damage from free radicals. It helps support the immune system and the body’s response to inflammation. It also protects the lipids in the cell membrane from damage and helps to prevent plaque buildup on the teeth.
The body cannot make vitamin E on its own, so it must be obtained either through diet or supplementation. It is typically found in nuts, seeds, wheat germ oil, spinach, asparagus, avocados, sweet potatoes, kiwi, mango, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seed oil, olives, and vegetable oils. However, it can be difficult to get enough through food sources alone, which is why it is recommended to take dietary supplements. It can also be applied topically to moisturize the skin and prevent wrinkles.
To learn more, contact Sina Malekuti DDS, PC, at 6120 Brandon Ave Suite 303, Springfield, VA 22150, or call (703) 451-3211.
