You’ve likely heard about the benefits of calcium, how it strengthens the bones and protects against fractures. But did you know that you need Vitamin D in order to absorb calcium? And yet, very few people are getting the amount they need. Why aren’t people getting enough and how can they get the amount recommended by their dentist and physician?
The Importance of Vitamin D, especially in Dental Care for Children
First, let’s briefly review why this vitamin is so important. Vitamin D is essential in the absorption of calcium, but it also plays a vital role in the following.
- Deficiencies in Vitamin D have been linked to breast, colon, and prostate cancers
- Children will develop rickets and adults will develop osteomalacia (soft, deformed bones). This includes the bones of the face, as well as the development of the teeth.
- The Vitamin D Council found that people with higher levels of Vitamin D from sun exposure had a lower risk of dental decay.
- Low levels can result in heart disease, weight gain and depression.
- It helps with immune system regulation.
Vitamin D is so important to the health and development of the human body that it produces the vitamin on its own.
Why Aren’t People Getting Enough Vitamin D
Sunshine is what stimulates the body to produce Vitamin D. We at Outdoor Dental in Seton, Calgary highly recommend getting out more and enjoying nature. When it comes to dental care for children, we urge parents to let their children play in the sunshine for at least thirty minutes a day.
Unfortunately, this isn’t easy. In the northern hemisphere it is difficult to get adequate sun exposure year round. While there are some beautiful and sunny days in the summer, they aren’t always sufficient.
Another reason people aren’t getting adequate sunshine is because of the fear of skin cancer. Your southeast Calgary dentist understands this concern. However, thirty minutes of fresh air and sunshine per day is safe. If you have to stay out longer, by all means wear sun block.
3 Ways Your Calgary Dentist Recommends Getting Your Daily Dose of Vitamin D
A blood test will show whether you have low Vitamin D levels. If you do, try the following.
1. Foods
Fatty fish, like salmon, tuna, mackerel and trout are good sources of Vitamin D. Portobello mushrooms are another great source, as are fortified milks and juices.
2. Supplements
Talk to your doctor about dosage recommendations. You may be able to try over-the-counter supplements, but if your levels are exceptionally low, that option won’t cut it. You’ll need a prescription, at least temporarily, to get an adequate boost of Vitamin D.
3. Sunshine
It bears repeating: try to get thirty minutes of sun exposure daily. For those who live or spend a lot of time in the far north, you may want to consider a Vitamin D sun lamp. This, of course, is quite an investment, but it may be able to help with Vitamin D production and symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder.
Get Outside: It is good for your teeth
If you want to remain strong and healthy, get outside and have some fun in the sun. Just thirty minutes a day is enough to produce adequate levels of Vitamin D. Keep this up and you’ll reduce your likelihood of decay, a toothache or other dental problems.
Do you have questions about Vitamin D and its relationship to your dental health? If so, call
Outdoor Dental in Calgary. Dr. Patel, your Seton dentist, will be happy to answer your questions.
