A dental implant is the most reliable solution to replace a lost tooth because it provides predictable results. Dental implants are proven to last for 30 years or longer with a 95% success rate. However, many factors affect the life expectancy of dental implants, like the health of your jawbone. Researchers have found that vitamin D deficiency can increase the risk of dental implant failure. Here’s how you can up your vitamin D intake to ensure your dental implants thrive for decades.
Importance of a Healthy Jawbone
Most people with good oral health and overall wellness can benefit from dental implants. Besides examining your mouth, your dentist uses a CT scan to ensure your jawbone can support dental implants. A dental implant is unique from other treatments because it mimics both the tooth root and the crown.
A titanium post is surgically placed into your jaw to support your restoration. Your jaw must fuse to the implant through a process called osseointegration for the procedure to be successful. However, tooth loss causes your jaw to shrink over time. You can lose up to 25% of your jaw’s density within the first year of having a missing tooth. It will continue to deteriorate as more time passes. Missing teeth aren’t the only thing to cause bone loss.
Vitamin D and Dental Implants
Vitamin D and calcium work together to support your bone health. Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium from food to build strong bones. The vitamin also keeps your gums healthy, which is essential for protecting your jawbone. An infection called peri-implantitis is a common cause of dental implant failure. It’s like gum disease, which destroys tooth roots and your jawbone with no treatment. Vitamin D reduces harmful oral bacteria in your mouth.
According to the National Institutes of Health, over 40% of adults in the United States are deficient in the vitamin. Low vitamin D is known to cause bone pain and fractures. Your bones will lose density because your body won’t absorb calcium correctly.
Vitamin D also supports your immune system. Without enough vitamin D in your diet, you can be at risk of infections and healing complications.
Are You Getting Enough Vitamin D?
Healthcare professionals recommend 600 international units (IU) of vitamin D daily for people 1-70 years old. Your physician can check your vitamin D levels through routine blood testing.
The sun is the best source of the vitamin. It’s best to spend at least 20 minutes per day outdoors. Choose healthy foods containing vitamin D, like tuna, egg yolks, and mushrooms. You can also take a daily supplement to ensure your dental implants last for a lifetime.
About Dr. Jamina Maric
Dr. Maric earned a nursing degree before achieving her dental degree from the University of Louisville School of Dentistry. She continues her training regularly to provide the latest solutions in dentistry, including dental implants. Request an appointment through her website or call her office at (513) 647-3001.