500,000 people every year are investing in dental implants to replace their lost teeth. They have over a 95% success rate, lasting for 30 years or longer with the proper care, like brushing and flossing. The risk of failure is less than 5% and often occurs from a preventable infection called peri-implantitis, which is like gum disease. However, new research has found another potential cause. Vitamin D deficiency might be a contributing factor. Here’s why you might want to spend more time outdoors soaking up the sun if you’re ready to invest in dental implants.
How Dental Implants Work
A dental implant method is unique because it mimics both the tooth root and the crown. A titanium post is surgically placed into your jaw to serve as a new root. Your bone must fuse to the post through a process called osseointegration. Once your jaw has healed, an abutment is connected to the post to attach a customized prosthetic tooth.
Most people with good oral and general health are candidates for dental implants. However, your jawbone must be healthy and have a low risk of healing complications. With vitamin D affecting your immune system and metabolic processes, deficiency can interfere with osseointegration and healing.
Vitamin D and Dental Implants
Vitamin D is important for new bone formation, which is essential for osseointegration. In addition, it also decreases oxidative stress and reduces surgical inflammation. Vitamin D also supports your immune system to lower the likelihood of infections and post-operative complications.
A recent study involving 885 dental implant patients found a link between vitamin D deficiency and dental implant failure. Patients deficient in the vitamin had an early implant failure rate of 11.1% when compared to a rate of 2.9% in patients with normal levels. Early research indicates the rate of failure increases by 300% when vitamin D deficiency is present.
Optimal Vitamin D Levels
According to the National Institutes of Health, normal vitamin D levels should be over 20 ng/mL. However, 42% of adults are deficient, which is attributed to poor diet, lack of sun exposure, and certain medical conditions. The best source of vitamin D is from the sun. It is best to spend at least 15 minutes two to three times a week outdoors with your face, arms, and hands exposed to the sun. You can also up your vitamin D level through nutritious foods, like salmon, cheese, and fortified products, including yogurt, almond milk, and orange juice. You may also benefit from a vitamin D supplement.
Your physician can check your vitamin D levels through a simple blood test. Schedule an appointment before your placement surgery to give you time to increase your intake, if necessary, to ensure your new smile will have everything it needs to succeed.
About Dr. Erin M. Prach
Dr. Prach strives to improve her patients’ wellness through good oral health. She achieved her dental degree at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine and has continued her training in various specialties, including dental implants and oral surgery. Request an appointment through her website or call her office at (307) 224-9887.