Dental implant failure is rare, but you should still go out of your way to keep the chances of it happening as low as possible. Of the many factors that can influence the success of your implant posts, one of the lesser-known examples is your vitamin D levels. Here’s a quick look at how this nutrient plays a vital role in the dental implant process, as well as how you can make sure you’re getting plenty of it.
How Does Vitamin D Help Dental Implants Succeed?
In order to get the stability and support they need, dental implants must form a lasting bond with your jawbone. This is done via a natural process called osseointegration, which involves new bone tissue growing around the implant posts.
Creating new bone requires the use of calcium and phosphorus. However, your body can only absorb these nutrients if it has plenty of vitamin D. As such, a lack of vitamin D can have a negative impact on bone growth, which can put your dental implants at a higher risk of failing.
Additionally, vitamin D has properties that let it help fight infection and inflammation. As such, it can reduce your risk of gum disease, which is one of the most common causes of dental implant failure.
How Can You Make Sure You’re Getting Enough Vitamin D?
If you’re suffering from a vitamin D deficiency, you might benefit from taking an over-the-counter supplement. The dose that’s right for you can vary depending on your needs, so be sure to consult with your regular physician first.
Additionally, there are several steps you can take to ensure that you get more vitamin D on a daily basis:
- Spend Time in the Sun: Your body can produce its own vitamin D when your skin is exposed to sunlight. Spending at least 20 minutes outside every day can go a long way toward helping you meet your vitamin D needs.
- Eat More Vitamin D-Rich Foods: Foods that are naturally high in vitamin D include various types of fatty fish, eggs, and mushrooms. Try adjusting your diet so that it contains more of these foods.
- Look for Beverages That are Fortified with Vitamin D: Certain beverages don’t contain vitamin D on their own but are often fortified with it. Examples that you might find at the store include cow’s milk, soy milk, and orange juice.
Getting plenty of vitamin D could ultimately make all the difference when it comes to replacing your missing teeth with sturdy, reliable implant posts. If you have any questions or concerns about how your diet can affect the dental implant process, you can bring them up to your dentist during your initial consultation.
About the Practice
At Advanced Dental Treatment Center, we bring our patients fully personalized, comprehensive dental care enhanced by concierge-style customer service. Our practice in Greenfield offers in-office dental implant placement and restoration for your convenience. If you would like to start the dental implant process by scheduling your initial consultation, visit our website or call (414) 209-7465.