Effects of Vitamin & Mineral Deficiency on Oral Health
Dr. Diana Wu is a Dentist practicing in Issaquah, Washington. Dr. Wu specializes in preventing, diagnosing, and treating diseases and conditions associated with the mouth and overall dental health. Dentists are trained to carry out such treatment as professional cleaning, restorative, prosthodontic, and endodontic procedures,... more
Vitamins and minerals are vital for our overall health, therefore from a holistic dentistry perspective, they would be important for oral health as well. However, their effect on oral health goes beyond the general benefits they have for a healthy lifestyle. Lack of certain vitamins and minerals can cause adverse dental issues discussed in greater detail below.
Vitamin A deficiency might result in brittleness, salivary gland degeneration, and increased risk of cavities. The primary group that is affected by vitamin A deficiency is infants.
Vitamin B deficiency can cause stomatitis (inflammation and pain of the mouth) or glossitis (inflammation and pain of the tongue) or get oral ulcers. These issues are more common in the elderly, those dealing with alcoholism, and individuals with vegetarian/vegan diets.
Vitamin C deficiency can lead to gum inflammation, poor wound healing, bleeding gums, and loosening of teeth. In the case of vitamin C-related issues elderly, smokers, alcoholics, and children whose primary source of nutrition is cow’s milk are at a higher risk.
Vitamin D deficiency can cause underdevelopment of the outer and inner layer of the tooth or tooth loss in extreme cases. Infants that are exclusively breastfed are at a higher risk of the problems associated with vitamin D deficiency.
Calcium & Phosphorus deficiency during pregnancy may result in bone deformities, incomplete tooth calcification, tooth malformation, increased risk of tooth decay in the developmental stage. Inadequate intake through childhood and into adolescence will lead to decreased bone density and mass. If unaddressed, it will cause osteoporosis – a disorder where the bone becomes porous, brittle and subject to fracture. The other complications for calcium and phosphorus deficiency include tooth mobility, premature tooth loss, and reduced strength of jaw bone.
Fluoride deficiency can lead to a greater risk of cavities which affects people living in areas with non-fluoridated water supply.
Dr. Diana Wu and her team at Issaquah Premier Dental believe that a balanced nutritious diet along with a healthy lifestyle is key to maintaining good oral health and prevent dental problems such as inflammation and pain in the mouth. If you are suffering from any of the conditions described above we strongly suggest you book a comprehensive dental exam to address your dental problem and prevent further damage to your teeth or gum.
