Wondering which vitamins and supplements will help support good oral health? There are several that provide benefits to maintaining a healthy mouth. Your best bet is to start with a healthy, well-balanced diet, full of fresh fruits and vegetables, and packed with protein. This will provide most of the vitamins and nutrients you need for your overall health.
When it comes to oral health, some specific vitamins that will help include Vitamins B2, B3, B12, C, and D. Have you ever experienced road mapping on your tongue? It may look like patches on your tongue that are different in color and may have an outline around them. This is often the result of a vitamin B deficiency. Taking a B Complex will help with the problem. Do you have bad breath? Vitamin B3, also known as Niacin, is sometimes the root of the problem. A lack of Vitamin C may lead to bleeding or swollen gums. Vitamin C promotes healthy blood flow and keeps the tissues in the mouth healthy. It also aids in the prevention of bacteria from spreading. Vitamin D is important because it aids in the absorption of calcium.
Minerals that promote good oral health include calcium, iron, and Coenzyme Q10. Because your teeth and jaw are made mostly of calcium, a lack in this mineral will put you at risk for tooth decay and gum disease. Making sure your body has enough calcium will prevent the body from needing to use calcium deposits already stored in bones. A lack in iron may lead to a swollen tongue and mouth sores. Coenzyme Q10 helps to protect your gums and acts as an immune system booster.
Another supplement that is good for the teeth and gums is licorice root.
Before taking any supplements, it’s important to talk to your doctor to see if they will interfere with any current conditions or treatments that you are undergoing. There are many supplements that interact with prescription medications, lead to other deficiencies or cause complications, increase blood pressure, or cross the placental barrier in pregnant women. Do due diligence before beginning a vitamin or supplement regimen by doing your research and talking to your doctor.