Could More Sunshine Prevent Cavities?

Vitamin D, also known as the "sunshine vitamin", provides many health benefits, ranging from bone strength and diabetes prevention to lowered blood pressure and more. However, there may be another benefit of Vitamin D that is worth noting, and one that will keep you smiling. According to studies published in the journal Nutrition Reviews, vitamin D may also play a significant role in preventing and even treating tooth decay. The study's clinical trials of both children and adults showed that vitamin D supplementation led to a 50 percent drop in the incidence of tooth decay. It is also been suggested that children who are vitamin D deficient may experience late teething and a higher risk of tooth decay.

The link between cavities and vitamin D is likely explained by the fact that vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium and phosphorus, which are the building blocks for strong teeth. Vitamin D's ability to maintain adequate blood calcium and phosphorus concentrations enables healthy mineralization of our bones and teeth. This mineralization process is important when it comes to the prevention of tooth decay. If our teeth have strong layers, they are more protected from enamel erosion and harmful invasion.

It should be noted that it is still not proven that vitamin D deficiency means you'll get more cavities. Also, it is unclear on exactly how much vitamin D is needed to keep your teeth healthy. Extra time in the sunshine should never replace the proven preventative methods for tooth decay, which is brushing and flossing on a daily basis, getting enough fluoride and seeing your dentist every six months.

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