Now that summer is nearly here, you’re likely excited to have plenty of fun in the sun! Whether you’re visiting the beach or spending time with family, you’ll want to be sure to stay healthy and hydrated throughout the season. But did you know the summer sun is beneficial for preserving your smile? Keep reading to learn about the significance of vitamin D and ways to manage healthy levels.
The Importance of Vitamin D in Dental Health
Sunlight helps us with numerous things—like growing food and keeping us warm. However, it can also provide our bodies with vitamin D, which is important for the following reasons:
- Calcium absorption: By naturally converting sunlight into vitamin D, you’ll be able to absorb calcium more effectively. This nutrient is essential for growing strong bones and preserving tooth enamel.
- Protection from tooth decay: Some studies have found a correlation between vitamin D and preventing tooth decay. Since you’ll promote healthier bone tissue by absorbing calcium, you can maintain stronger teeth and reduce your chances of cavities in the long run.
- Immune system support: Vitamin D is also crucial for supporting your immune system and helping it work properly. This includes protecting your body from infections and fighting against cavity-causing bacteria. Without a sufficient amount, you may increase your risk of dental issues like gum disease and tooth decay.
How to Manage Vitamin D Levels
While sunshine helps protect and maintain healthy teeth, you should still avoid being exposed to it for prolonged periods. To prevent getting a sunburn, be sure to spend between 5 to 30 minutes outside. This can provide a sufficient amount of vitamin D for your body and smile.
If you have an immune, liver, or digestive issue, then you may have some difficulty converting enough sunlight for vitamin D. For this reason, you can also maintain healthy levels of this hormone with a diet consisting of rich foods—including fatty fish (salmon or tuna), eggs, milk, yogurt, cheese, and orange juice.
Spending time under the summer sun can help relieve stress as well as maintain a healthy smile. Speak with your dentist if you’d like to know best practices for preserving your teeth, or if you think you may be vitamin D deficient, and they’ll be glad to help!
About the Author
Dr. Poorvi Gandhi earned her dental doctorate from the Kornberg School of Dentistry at Temple University. She also continues to pursue advanced training through her membership in the American and Pennsylvania Dental Association. She provides a wide selection of comprehensive treatments, including dental checkups/cleanings, and will be more than happy to discuss the benefits of sunlight for your smile. If you’d like to know more about the importance of vitamin D in dental health, feel free to visit our website or call 215-643-5220.
