6 Vitamins Holistic Dentistry Says You Should Be Taking for Your Smile

Similar to the rest of our body, our mouths also need vitamins and minerals to function properly. Holistic dentistry encourages overall health, so by supplementing the body with the vitamins and nutrients it needs for mouth health, you will inevitably make the body healthier as a whole. Read on to find out which supplements you should be taking to help prevent cavities, bad breath, gum and bone disease, canker sores, and cold sores.

Why you need it: We know it improves our sight, gives us radiant skin and strengthens our immune system, but holistic dentistry acknowledges that Vitamin A also helps maintain healthy mucous membranes and a good salivary flow which washes away food, plaque and bad bacteria.

Where you get it from: You can find Beta-Carotene (what the body converts to Vitamin A) in fish, egg yolks, carrots, mangoes, sweet potatoes, kale, and spinach.

Why you need it: Along with reducing stress, which also reduces disease-causing bacteria in the mouth, B Vitamins can reduce inflammation and prevent canker sores.

Where you get it from: B Vitamins can be found in meat, beans, legumes and green vegetables. Typically, vegetarians and vegans are at risk for being B12 deficient, so a supplement may be needed.

Why you need it: Vitamin C helps most in building and repairing connective tissue which makes it an ideal vitamin to help with periodontal health and preventing gum inflammation.

Where you get it from: Vitamin C can be found in oranges, broccoli, kale and most berries.

Why you need it: Vitamin D helps regulate blood levels of calcium and phosphorus, so without it, your body cannot properly absorb calcium into your bones or teeth.

Where you get it from: 15 minutes outside in the sun 3 times per week will give your body the adequate amount of Vitamin D, however, the majority of the population in Canada does not get this (especially in winter months). Vitamin D supplements may be required.

Why you need it: According to holistic dentistry, calcium provides strength and structure to the bones and teeth.

Where you get it from: Calcium can be found in, green leafy vegetables, cauliflower, cabbage, and almonds.

Why you need it: Co-Q10 provides cells with the energy they need to digest food, heal wounds, and maintain healthy muscles. With respect to gingivitis and periodontitis, Co-Q10 has been shown to help reduce pain, decrease bleeding and promote good oral health.

Where you get it from: Co-Q10 can be found in pork, beef, vegetable oils, and parsley. Supplementation is recommended.