Smile and say….Deee

As you may know, the best way to obtain the required amount of vitamin D is from the sun. Protecting ourselves with the appropriate sunblock will still permit enough vitamin D to allow for sufficient vitamin D formation.  Numerous articles indicate that deficiencies in vitamin D and Calcium result in bone loss and increased inflammation, which are typical symptoms of periodontal disease.

Vitamin D deficiency is actually recognized as a major cause of metabolic bone disease in the elderly. Twenty minutes of sun exposure, a few times per week, to the face, arms, hands or back, is usually enough to provide adequate vitamin D that your body will store over the winter.

Since fall is fast approaching and days are growing shorter, we may not be giving ourselves “permission” to take time out to receive a little “sun therapy”, so we have to consider other sources of intake as well.  Foods such as milk, egg yolks, sardines, salmon, herring, tuna fish and wheat germ are all fortified with vitamin D.

Remember: Sufficient intake of vitamin D is crucial for proper mineralization of bones and teeth And is an important adjunct to standard treatments offered by your Dentist and Dental Hygienist for the prevention and treatment of periodontal disease.