Deficiency of this vitamin can lead to gum problems and tooth loss

Vitamin D impact on the body

A lack of sufficient vitamin D can lead to a range of oral health issues. Dentist Andrej Bozic explained that vitamin D is crucial for the absorption of calcium, which is essential for maintaining bone strength.

Without enough vitamin D, the body struggles to absorb calcium properly, leading to weakened bones, including the jawbone that supports teeth. This can result in tooth mobility and even tooth loss.

Although vitamin D is not directly linked to strengthening tooth enamel, it plays an important role in maintaining the structures surrounding the teeth. A deficiency can also affect gum health, making them more prone to infection.

"When Vitamin D levels are low, the immune system struggles to manage inflammation in the gums, increasing the risk of gingivitis. Left untreated, this inflammation can progress to periodontitis, a severe form of gum disease that can result in tooth loss," the doctor explained.

This issue is particularly relevant in winter, as reduced sunlight exposure is a major cause of vitamin D deficiency. Combined with a diet lacking in vitamin D-rich foods, this can jeopardize oral health.

Signs of deficiency

Early signs of vitamin D deficiency can include bleeding and sensitivity of the gums, as well as tooth mobility.

These symptoms often go unnoticed or are mistaken for minor issues, but they indicate that the underlying bone structure has weakened.

To protect your oral health during the winter, the doctor recommends several simple steps:

• Sunlight - spending 10 to 15 minutes outdoors in natural light daily can help the body produce vitamin D, even on cloudy days.
• Diet adjustment - add foods rich in vitamin D, such as fatty fish (salmon, mackerel), fortified dairy products, egg yolks, and for vegetarians - fortified plant-based milk and mushrooms.
• Supplements - if sunlight and diet are insufficient, consider taking a vitamin D supplement. It’s important to consult with a doctor before starting any supplements.

This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.