We’ve all grown up hearing how important it is to drink our milk to ensure we get enough Vitamin D to ensure strong and healthy bones. As we age, particularly for women, Vitamin D remains an important tool in stemming the tide of osteoporosis and maintaining strong enamel. It can even help to hold off tooth decay in its early stages. In addition to all this goodness, research has revealed that it also plays an essential role in fending off gingivitis and periodontal disease. Below we’re going to explain the importance of Vitamin D in your diet and how it can help fend off gum disease.
The Role of Vitamin D In The Battle Against Gum Disease
Most people experience bleeding gums and tenderness resulting from gingivitis at some point in their lives. Periodontal disease, which occurs when gingivitis remains untreated, affects nearly 47% of all adults over the age of 30. This disease, which involves numerous types of bacteria, can cause the recession of the gum line and cause re-absorption of nutrients by the jawbone. This increases the likelihood of tooth loss. So how does Vitamin D help with all of this? Research presented in an article in the Medicina peer-reviewed scientific journal reveals one possible answer. “Vitamin D affects the pathogenesis of periodontal diseases (PD) via immunomodulation,” Meaning that the development of the disease is impacted by Vitamin D boosting the immune system. It goes on to say that this vitamin “, increases bone mineral density (BMD), reduces bone resorption, and is important in fighting against agents that cause periodontal diseases.” Vitamin D also:
- Fibroblasts and periodontal cells use Vitamin D as a defense against the bacteria that causes the inflammation typical with gum disease. Additionally, it aids in the immune response and has been shown to be an effective anti-microbial against Acintobacillus actinomycetemcomitans. It accomplishes this by neutralizing the toxin that’s released when these cells disintegrate.
- When found in blood plasma, Vitamin D has proven effective against Acintobacillus in concentrations above 90-100nmol/L.
- Of the four tissues that make up the periodontium, the tissue that supports the teeth, vitamin D aids in the support of these tissues. It also has been shown to reduce the presence of reduced bone density. This serves to reduce the risk of chronic periodontal disease developing.
How You Can Use Vitamin D To Help Your Oral Health
One of the easiest and best ways to get Vitamin D isn’t a glass of milk; it’s spending some time in the sun a few times a week. Just the light hitting your palms, hands, and face can produce up to 10,000 IU of Vitamin D. This is equivalent to five days of the recommended daily dose of Vitamin D. You can also take dietary supplements under the supervision of your dietitian or physician. The preferred sources are dairy products, sunlight, mushrooms, and fatty fish.
