Eating a balanced diet and brushing and flossing regularly are all important steps toward maintaining good oral health. There is, however, another vital (and easy) step that you can take to promote good oral health. Eating a well-balanced diet, brushing and flossing, and visiting the dentist regularly are all crucial steps toward maintaining good oral health. There is, however, another vital (and easy) step that you can take to promote good oral health: taking vitamin supplements.

Vitamin A

This vitamin plays a role in bone growth and tooth development, which is why it is essential to children and adolescents for the proper formation of jawbones and teeth. It also regulates cell production in the gums and helps wounds to heal. A deficiency in vitamin A can cause scurvy, which is characterized by bleeding of the gums and frequent tooth loss.

Some food sources rich in vitamin A include liver, sweet potatoes, carrots, and dark leafy greens. There are also several non-dairy milks that are fortified with vitamin A, including soy milk and almond milk. However, be careful not to overdo it on these foods, as consuming too much vitamin A could lead to toxicity. Keep supplements to a minimum if you are at risk of a deficiency in vitamin A.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is naturally present in some foods, like fish, eggs, and milk. It can also be taken as a supplement. It's best to get vitamin D from natural sources rather than supplements since too much vitamin D could lead to toxicity. In your mouth, vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium and phosphorus, which are minerals necessary for oral health. Without enough vitamin D, you risk having weak bones and teeth. It also helps protect against gum inflammation and other periodontal diseases. Some studies even link low vitamin D levels with tooth loss in older adults.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C helps promote healthy gum tissue by strengthening collagen, which helps keep gums hydrated. It also aids in the absorption of calcium to keep teeth hard and strong. Foods high in vitamin C include broccoli, oranges, strawberries, bell peppers, and Brussels sprouts. It's also available in supplement form. 

Vitamin B

Vitamin B1, or thiamine, helps keep the mucous membranes that line the mouth healthy and strong. A deficiency in this vitamin can cause sensitivity in the gums, making them prone to bleeding when you brush or floss. Other symptoms of a B1 deficiency include oral ulcers, swelling of the tongue, and a swollen face. 

Vitamin B2, or riboflavin, promotes healthy saliva production in the mouth. It's needed to absorb calcium and iron, which keep the teeth strong and healthy. Riboflavin also helps with carbohydrate metabolism and releases the energy you need from food.

Vitamin B3, or niacin, helps lower the risk of gum disease by reducing inflammation in the mouth. This nutrient also helps prevent tooth decay by keeping bacteria from sticking to the teeth. Niacin also supports heart health and improves digestion. Good sources of niacin include fish, chicken, beef, eggs, legumes, peanuts, milk, and whole grains.

Vitamin B12 is needed for the proper development of red blood cells in your body, including those in your circulatory system. The mouth contains an abundance of blood vessels, making B12 essential to the health of your smile. 

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is an antioxidant that can slow the breakdown of collagen, which is the main structural protein found in gum tissues. It also stimulates the growth of cells responsible for regenerating gum tissue. It helps to prevent bleeding gums while brushing or flossing. However, you can only get these benefits from foods that contain vitamin E, like nuts and seeds. You can also find this nutrient in vegetables, fruits, meats, and whole grains.

Contact our office at (225) 926-4640 today to learn more and to schedule your next appointment with us. You can also visit our dentist in Baton Rouge, LA, at 4616 Concord Avenue, Baton Rouge, LA, 70808.