Most Important Vitamins for Teeth and Gums

The teeth are the strongest part of our body. They are the part that most people notice first when they look at us. However, they are prone to damage. Our lifestyle and habits play a significant role in the health of our teeth.

Vitamin A

When eaten in high doses, vitamin A can cause liver damage. However, it is beneficial for healthy gum tissues and teeth. Vitamin A is important for producing saliva, which rinses away food debris and bacteria from your mouth and helps to prevent cavities. Foods rich in vitamin A include carrots, kale, pumpkin, sweet potato, cantaloupe, spinach, red bell peppers, broccoli, eggs, milk, cheese, and liver.

Vitamin B

Vitamin B is a family of eight vitamins that play important roles in cell metabolism, including the formation of red blood cells and the maintenance of the central nervous system. All the B vitamins are important for oral health. Without enough vitamin B complex in the body, the gums may develop inflammation or infection.

Vitamin B1 helps the body break down carbohydrates into glucose which the cells use for energy. The cells of the mouth rely on this process to produce the energy needed to maintain the healthy cellular turnover that supports a healthy oral environment.

Vitamin B2 is also involved in energy production but more subtly than B1. B2 keeps the immune system functioning normally, keeping inflammation at bay in the gums and supporting the health of the mucous membranes. It helps produce antibodies that prevent bacteria and viruses from hijacking the mouth’s immune system and causing disease.

Vitamin B3 supports the natural regrowth of gum tissue. When gums are inflamed or damaged, they can no longer support the teeth. This vitamin helps replace the lost gum tissue so that the teeth are supported as fully as possible.

Vitamin B5 plays an important role in healing wounds in the mouth. A compromised gum line can open to bacteria that can infect the soft tissue and cause serious gum disease. This vitamin encourages wound healing so that infectious bacteria cannot gain a foothold.

Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause terrible symptoms throughout the body, but it also has serious consequences for the mouth. B12 plays an essential part in red blood cell formation, and healthy blood is necessary for good oral hygiene. People with B12 deficiencies often struggle with gingivitis due to poor circulation to the gums.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is essential for healthy bones, teeth, gums, and the epithelial tissue in your mouth. It facilitates the absorption of calcium into the body so that it can reach the teeth and bones there. Without vitamin D, your body won’t be able to absorb calcium, which can weaken your jawbone and cause your teeth to loosen. This can then lead to tooth loss in advanced cases. The best way to protect your teeth and gums is to eat foods high in vitamin D or take supplements like cod liver oil. If you are concerned about these vitamins or about your oral health, talk to your dentist today!

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is an antioxidant that can protect your gums from infection and inflammation. It can be found in oranges, grapefruits, kale, broccoli, tomatoes, and other fruits and vegetables. In addition to adding vitamin C to your diet, it can be beneficial to use toothpaste or mouthwash that has vitamin C in it. That way, you’re making sure your teeth are getting enough of this essential vitamin.

Contact Vasquez & Associates Dental Office if you have any questions. You can schedule a consultation by calling (760) 529-5339 or visiting us at 3601 Vista Way Ste 105, Oceanside, CA 92056.