Vitamin D in Lebanon is often extolled for its many health benefits. However, it is not often mentioned in conversations about dental implants, even though it should be. What role does this nutrient play in dental implant success, and how can you make sure that you get enough of it? This blog post addresses those important questions.
Vitamin D and Dental Implants
Vitamin D plays a crucial role in bone health. It enables the body to absorb other key nutrients, including calcium and phosphorous, both of which are important components of bone. Without enough vitamin D, problems like bone fractures and osteoporosis become more likely.
Having strong bones is vital for dental implant success. Once the bones are inserted into the jawbone, the bone will remodel, growing around the implants. This process, called osseointegration, is more likely to be successful if adequate amounts of vitamin D are present in a patient’s body.
Vitamin D helps dental implants in Lebanon in another way. It can boost the body’s defenses against harmful bacteria. Therefore, it can lower the risk that infections will sneak into the gum tissue around implants and cause them to fail.
Tips for Getting More Vitamin D
Unfortunately, vitamin D deficiency is very common in the U.S., with one estimate stating that 42% of people are lacking in this key nutrient. How can you boost your vitamin D levels? Here are some practical suggestions:
- Soak up some sun. The human body is capable of making its own vitamin D, but only when the skin is exposed to sunlight. 10 – 30 minutes of midday sun exposure several days a week is adequate for many people, though individuals with dark skin may need to spend a little longer outside.
- Try a UV lamp. Admittedly, the weather does not always make it possible to get enough sunlight for the human body to produce enough vitamin D. You might try sitting next to a lamp that emits UVB rays as an alternative.
- Adjust your diet. Fatty fish and seafood, fortified dairy products, mushrooms, and egg yolks are some excellent sources of dietary vitamin D.
- Take a supplement. Vitamin D supplements come in a few different forms. Try to choose one that features vitamin D3 (not D2). Also, do some research so you can assure yourself that any supplements you are taking are high-quality.
If you aren’t sure how much vitamin D you need, ask your physician to take a blood test. It should reveal data that can be used to recommend a daily intake of vitamin D.
Vitamin D can play an important role in the success of your dental implants! Some small lifestyle adjustments may be just what you need to make sure you are getting enough of this critical nutrient.
Meet the Practice
The team at Santavicca Dental Professionals is proud to provide start-to-finish dental implant treatment as one of our many services. If you are interested in replacing your lost teeth, our team will be happy to answer all of your questions about your options. We can also provide coaching to help you keep your implants as healthy as possible. To learn more about us and how we may be able to serve you, contact us at 603-215-7108.