The Link Between Vitamin Deficiency and Tooth Decay

Tooth cavities or decay are caused by the erosion of tooth enamel and dentine (check out the picture above). Several experiments have demonstrated how nutritional deficiencies during tooth development can impair the structure of the tooth, increasing the risk of tooth decay.

Here are three essential vitamins to support your body to protect against tooth decay:

Vitamin A

A deficiency of Vitamin A leads to impaired epithelial cells, which are responsible for secreting calcium, phosphate, fluoride, magnesium and carbonate ions that help form enamel and a healthy tooth. A vitamin A deficiency results in poor enamel, enamel with pits or enamel that is less dense. In severe cases, the whole tooth may be rough.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is essential for calcium and phosphate to function adequately in the body, both of which are essential for the normal formation of tooth enamel. Studies found that children with high levels of vitamin D had lower incidences of dental cavities.

Vitamin C

Experimental studies have also found a deficiency of ascorbic acid (vitamin C) increases the susceptibility to dentine damage. The reason is that the very cells that help build dentine are directly influenced by ascorbic acid supply, hence low vitamin C means a low number of these dentine producing and protecting cells.

What you can do…

Consuming food in its natural form is the best way to prevent tooth cavities and disease in general. You can learn more about the diet we recommend at SHDC here.

• A diet rich in fruits, vegetables and good quality protein will ensure you receive essential vitamins and minerals.
• To increase vitamin A levels focus on carrots, sweet potato, spinach and broccoli all cooked in butter, beef liver is also a great source.
• Fruits such as oranges, strawberries and kiwi, and vegetables like capsicum, kale and Brussel sprouts are great sources of Vitamin C.
• Consume oily fish such as sardines and mackerel to increase your Vitamin D intake. Small exposure to UV light will also increase your Vitamin D levels.

Regular visits to the dentist and hygienist are essential for protecting against tooth decay. A practitioner will examine your teeth and identify any problem areas. To read more about nutrition and tooth decay check out the Weston A. Price Foundation.

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