Did you know that dental implants have an incredibly high success rate of 95%? This popular method for replacing one or more teeth is known for being durable and resilient because it’s inserted directly into your jawbone. As a result, it’s the only restoration that stimulates it to prevent the deterioration that occurs after suffering from tooth loss.
If you’re investing in dental implants, it’s natural to want to do everything in your power to ensure that they last. One simple way to support your mouth is by filling your body with the ingredients it needs to function at its peak. For example, getting enough vitamin D is essential for the success of your restoration. Keep reading to learn more about this ingredient and why it’s important!
What is Vitamin D?
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble ingredient that can be obtained naturally from exposure to sunlight as well as through certain foods like oily fish including salmon, mackerel, and sardines. Other foods, like dairy products and cereal, are often fortified with it.
Having enough vitamin D is essential for bone growth, reducing inflammation, and contributing to cell regeneration. It maintains new bone by allowing your body to absorb calcium and phosphorus from foods you eat. If you have a deficiency, you’re more likely to develop conditions like osteoporosis or have thin or brittle bones.
How Does Vitamin D Help Dental Implants?
Before you can get dental implants, you must first consult with your dentist so they can ensure you’re a good candidate for the procedure. They’ll examine your mouth to spot any signs of cavities or gum disease, as well as ensure that you have enough bone density to support it. After the abutment rod is surgically inserted into your jaw, it fuses with the bone through a process called osseointegration. It can take 3 to 6 months for your mouth to grow enough new bone matter for this to successfully occur.
If you have lower levels of vitamin D, your body might not generate enough bone tissue and your restoration could fail. Plus, it has been found to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. This contributes to the healing process (and dental implant success) by fighting potential infection.
How Do I Know If I Have Enough Vitamin D?
A simple blood test will reveal whether you have the right amount of vitamin D in your system. If you don’t, your provider might suggest a dietary supplement that can be taken in pill form. Alternatively, spending about 20 minutes in the sun during peak hours on bright days can also boost your levels to where they need to be.
Now that you know more about how vitamin D impacts your dental implants, you can proactively take steps to ensure that you have enough to support them!
About the Author
Dr. Sam Antoon has 34+ years of experience providing patients with a full range of services to improve their dental well-being, including dental implants. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Microbiology in 1986, then achieved his dental doctorate from the Southern Illinois University’s School of Dental Medicine. Today, he uses advanced dental technology and techniques in a comfortable setting to enhance patient comfort while increasing the accuracy and longevity of treatment results. If you’re interested in dental implants but are concerned about a vitamin D deficiency, he can help! You’re welcome to request a consultation appointment on the website or by calling (972) 640-6229.