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Posted on 9/25/2019 by Dr. Jae Seon Kim |
 You probably already know that vitamin D is important for your bones and helps you to prevent rickets and osteoporosis, but did you know that it is also important for your teeth?Vitamin D is crucial for the absorption of calcium. Without enough vitamin D in your system, the body won't be able to absorb much calcium and that will end up weakening your bones. In fact, lots of research shows that vitamin D is related to lots of different organ systems in your body besides the bones. So, a lack of vitamin D won't just affect your bones; it will likely affect all of you. Types of Vitamin DVitamin D comes in two varieties: vitamin D2 and vitamin D3. Vitamin D2 can only be obtained from the food you eat and cannot be synthesized by your body. Vitamin D3 is synthesized by your body after exposure to the sunlight. Vitamin D3 is significantly more potent than vitamin D2 and also has a longer duration of action. You can also get vitamin D3 from supplements and special foods like herring and mackerels. That is why you're always advised to get some time out in the sun, because the vitamin D you make as a result of sun exposure is more potent than the one you get from your food. The vitamin D is converted into its active form, calcitriol, in the liver. From there it goes around your body, stimulating cell growth, fighting inflammation, and boosting your immunity. It also promotes the absorption of calcium in your digestive system. The Importance of Vitamin D to TeethSince teeth are bones, they need vitamin D just as much as the other bones. Without enough vitamin D in your system, your calcium absorption will be very low, and it will ultimately affect your teeth as well. This could ultimately lead to bleeding gums and tooth decay. If you ever suspect your vitamin D levels might be low, such as because you don't spend enough time in the sun, or you have symptoms like bleeding gums, you should come to our office immediately for a checkup and advice on what to do next. Don't wait until it's too late! |
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2046 Westlake Ave. N. Suite 204 Seattle, WA 98109-2700 Contact Office: (206)284-4505 Fax: (206) 284-4757  |
