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Vitamin D supplies teeth with mineralsDear Dr. Reitz: I have been taking daily supplements of vitamin D since being diagnosed deficient by my physician. I am 45 years old and healthy overall. Is there a connection between vitamin D deficiency, tooth decay and the bone loss from gum disease that I have experienced over the years? - Susan Dear Susan: Before I discuss the dental benefits of vitamin D, I want to be clear that gum disease and tooth decay are caused by a combination of bacteria, dietary habits and your body's genetic makeup. Vitamin D functions both by helping your body absorb calcium from food and by maintaining adequate blood calcium and phosphate concentrations to enable normal bone formation. Having sufficient calcium provided by vitamin D helps maintain the bone that supports the teeth. You body has two sources of vitamin D, from food and sunlight. Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is naturally present in dairy products, fish and fortified cereals. Sunlight is your most important source of vitamin D, because most food cannot provide your daily requirement. It's known as the sunshine vitamin because it's believed that as little as 15 minutes in the sun allows the skin to produce enough to prevent deficiencies. Many of my patients have recently been placed on vitamin D supplements by their physicians. My hygienists have noticed that patients taking both calcium and vitamin D supplements appear to have smoother and harder-looking teeth. Studies have confirmed the dental benefits of vitamin D. If tooth erosion is discovered, a dietary evaluation may reveal the cause. Since teeth are made of calcium and phosphate, both regulated by vitamin D, it's believed a link exists between oral health and vitamin D. Saliva in a healthy mouth contains high concentrations of calcium and phosphate, both supplied by the saliva producing parotid gland in the cheek. In studies, animals deficient in vitamin D were found to produce saliva low in calcium and phosphate. It's thought that saliva rich in dissolved calcium and phosphate helps to re-mineralize and harden teeth. Hard, smooth teeth are more resistant to decay. It's also been found that children born to mothers deficient in vitamin D developed more cavities in their primary teeth. Getting enough vitamin D is necessary to maintain healthy bones; however since it is fat soluble and can accumulate in the body, it's important not to exceed your physician's daily recommendations. This column is written by John Reitz, DDS, and does not represent the opinion of the Pennsylvania State Dental Board. Dr Reitz answers questions from readers. E-mail them via his Web site at reitzdds.com or mail to John Reitz, DDS, 30 Commerce Drive, Wyomissing PA 19610 John
V. Reitz, D.D.S., F.A.G.D. Copyright
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