There is no denying that exposure to natural sunlight has many great benefits. Not only can help lower blood pressure and improve bone health, but it can also reduce the chances of developing depression and other mental health issues as well as promote better sleep patterns. One bonus is that its production of vitamin D can positively impact dental implant treatment. Read on to discover how this essential nutrient can help you enjoy your new, complete smile for a lifetime.
What Kind of Benefits Does Vitamin D Provide?
When it comes to dental implants, vitamin D exposure can be one of the most beneficial components of treatment.
The reason is that successful implant placement requires that you have a stable and dense jawbone. While many patients require a bone graft to create a more suitable foundation for these prosthetics, the health and longevity of this area of the mouth must remain strong if your new teeth are to last a lifetime.
Vitamin D works to ensure the absorption of calcium and phosphorus – two minerals known to create stronger, healthier bones. Without vitamin D, your body will remain deficient, making it harder for your implant posts to fuse with the bone during osseointegration. If unsuccessful, these prosthetics can fail.
Ways to Increase Vitamin D Exposure
When preparing to receive dental implants, you’ll want to make sure that you increase your intake of vitamin D. You can do this by spending more time in the natural sunlight, taking supplements, or eating certain foods that contain this essential vitamin.
Spending just 15 minutes each morning outside can be helpful, but you might also want to consider eating foods like milk, eggs, salmon, canned tuna, mushrooms, Swiss cheese, tuna, yogurt, and dark chocolate.
Depending on your age, you’ll want to make sure you consume the recommended amount of vitamin D each day. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) suggests that individuals between the ages of 19 and 70 receive 15 micrograms, and those who are 71 years of age and older should receive 20 micrograms.
When replacing your missing teeth with dental implants, make sure you’re doing everything to keep them in place for a lifetime. By adding vitamin D to your daily regime, you’ll set yourself up for greater success.
About the Author
Dr. Deepti Namineni received her dental degree from Manipal University School of Dentistry in India before moving to the U.S. and earning her master’s in public health from the University of Illinois at Springfield. After graduating from New York University School of Dentistry in 2012, she worked in the DFW area before entering private practice. Leading the team at The Grand Prairie Dentist, she works with patients who opt for dental implants to replace their missing teeth. Providing the entire process in-house, she is ready to help you or a loved one enjoy a full, complete smile once again, so contact us via our website or call (972) 573-4932.