Vitamin D: A Surprisingly Vital Nutrient for Dental Implant Success

When you choose to get dental implants to replace your missing teeth, it’s important to be aware of all the variables that can potentially influence the success of the procedure. Some of the more well-known variables include jawbone density and the overall health of the mouth. But did you know that the presence of certain nutrients can make a difference as well? Below is a look at how vitamin D levels can play a role in helping your dental implants succeed.

Vitamin D and Dental Implants

For dental implants to succeed, they need to fuse with the jawbone via a process called osseointegration. This process involves using calcium and phosphorus to grow and maintain new bone tissue. However, your body can only absorb calcium and phosphorus if vitamin D is present. Consequently, if your vitamin D levels are low, osseointegration may not take place as intended, which can ultimately lead to dental implant failure.

Getting Enough Vitamin D for Dental Implants

If you want your dental implants to succeed, it’s crucial to make sure that you’re getting a sufficient amount of vitamin D. The easiest way to do so is to spend some time outside. Exposure to sunlight will stimulate a process in the skin that converts cholesterol into vitamin D3. Ideally, you should make sure that your skin gets about 20 minutes of direct sunlight on a daily basis.

Of course, you can also get vitamin D from certain foods. Various kinds of fish, such as salmon, tuna, herrings and sardines, tend to be rich in this particular nutrient. Other good sources of vitamin D include egg yolks and mushrooms. It may also be worth searching for beverages that have been fortified with vitamin D, which often includes cow’s milk and orange juice.

Sometimes, it may be beneficial to take vitamin D supplements. However, this is not a decision you should make without consulting an expert first, particularly if you’re currently taking some other type of medication. Reach out to your regular physician to find out whether vitamin D supplements are appropriate in your case.

Do you have concerns about your vitamin D levels or other factors that might affect your ability to get dental implants? Don’t hesitate to voice any concerns to your dentist. They will be more than happy to provide the answers you need and help you figure out whether dental implants are truly right for you.

About the Author

Dr. David M. Weinman went to the School of Dental Medicine at the University of Connecticut for his dental degree. He has completed a three-year dental implant program at NYU, and he is a fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantology. He’s proud to offer in-house dental implant placement at his practice in Westfield. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Weinman, visit his website or call (908) 654-7200.