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What you eat can affect the health of your teeth. Malnutrition and vitamin deficiency can cause several oral and general health problems. On the other hand, a healthy diet full of essential nutrients can protect your teeth from damage. Listed below are a few essential vitamins that benefit your oral health:

Vitamin D

A vitamin that is sometimes overlooked, vitamin D is essential for healthy gums. It helps the body absorb calcium more effectively, which protects the bones and teeth from harmful bacteria and other damage. While sunlight is the main source of vitamin D, fatty fish, and some dairy products also contain small amounts. If you’re worried about not getting enough of this essential vitamin, talk to your dentist about supplements.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C helps produce collagen, a protein that holds the gums tightly to the teeth and protects them against harmful bacteria. It also promotes gum health by preventing gingivitis and periodontal disease. Foods that are rich in vitamin C include bell peppers, spinach, broccoli, kale, strawberries, mango, kiwi, tomatoes, and grapefruit.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that is found in animal products such as liver, dairy products, cheese, eggs, and fish. It is an essential nutrient needed for the development and maintenance of teeth as well as skin tissue. Lack of vitamin A can cause poor tooth enamel growth, tooth decay, gum disease, and even tooth loss. You can take supplements to get this essential vitamin. It can also be found in multivitamins. 

Vitamin E

There are many foods that can help promote a healthy smile! One of the best is vitamin E. This vitamin helps the body form new red blood cells, which carry oxygen from the lungs throughout the body, including the mouth. Without adequate amounts of this vitamin, your mouth may have trouble fighting off an infection or healing itself after an oral injury. This can lead to an increased risk of gum disease. With enough of this vitamin in your diet, your gums and heart may be healthier, too. It has also been linked to reduced risks of cancer in the gastrointestinal tract and some forms of skin cancer. Unfortunately, many foods that are high in vitamin E are empty calories that can put you at risk for weight gain. 

To learn more, visit Dr. Ernie Soto at 10187 Cleary Blvd. Suite 103, Plantation 33324, or call (954) 368-626.