Dental implants are amazing prosthetic devices that can replace lost teeth with beautiful and lifelike restorations that may last for decades if they receive excellent care, but they can only do that if they heal properly after being surgically placed. Vitamin D is an especially important nutrient when healing after dental implant surgery, and failing to get enough of it can prevent your devices from integrating with your jaw properly. Here’s a brief guide to why vitamin D is important and how you can get more of it.
Why Is Vitamin D Crucial for Dental Implants?
Vitamin D allows the body to absorb nutrients like calcium and phosphorus from food through the large intestine, and neglecting to consume enough of it can deprive the skeletal system of the minerals it needs to heal and reinforce its structure. If a patient does not receive enough vitamin D after getting dental implants, their appliances may not be able to fuse with the jawbone through the process of osseointegration, which will deprive them of the sturdy foundation they need for maximum chewing power and a long lifespan.
How Can I Get More Vitamin D?
Luckily, there are a few easy ways to get more vitamin D after dental implant surgery. These include:
- Getting about twenty minutes of unprotected sun exposure daily while avoiding doing so during peak hours on especially sunny days.
- Using a UV lamp if you are inside a lot or work at night.
- Taking supplements with vitamin D.
- Consuming foods that are high in vitamin D like:
- Eggs
- Fish like salmon, tuna, and sardines
- Fortified foods like cereals, milk, and orange juice
- Milk substitutes such as those made from almonds or soy.
How Else Can I Help Keep My Recovery Process Smooth?
You can also help keep your dental implants’ healing process going smoothly by following your dentist’s postoperative instructions. These will probably include:
- Refraining from spitting or drinking through a straw for several days.
- Avoiding foods and beverages that are especially crunchy, chewy, sugary, sticky, or acidic until the implant has healed sufficiently.
- Abstaining from tobacco and alcohol use while your implant is healing.
- Not chewing with your new dental implant.
- Being especially careful when brushing or flossing near your new implant.
You can resume your normal habits when your dentist says it is safe to do so.
Smart eating decisions can set your dental implants up for many years of success. Consulting with your dentist can help you find the best way to keep your natural and artificial teeth in great shape.
About the Author
Dr. Dan Passidomo earned his dental degree at the University of Kentucky College of Dentistry and refines his skills further by participating in continuing education coursework. He is proud to serve as a member of the Dayton Dental Society and the American Dental Association. His office in Centerville offers preventative, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry as well as dental implants. To book your consultation for dental implants, contact his office online or dial (937) 886-9935.