{"id":179,"date":"2022-07-15T02:04:00","date_gmt":"2022-07-15T02:04:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.edgewooddentalmc.com\/blog\/?p=179"},"modified":"2022-09-20T01:39:15","modified_gmt":"2022-09-20T01:39:15","slug":"soak-up-the-sun-to-protect-your-dental-health","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.edgewooddentalmc.com\/blog\/2022\/07\/15\/soak-up-the-sun-to-protect-your-dental-health\/","title":{"rendered":"Is Getting Outside Good for Dental Health?"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"WomanYour body relies on vitamin D to support a strong immune system. The best source comes from the sun, and spending time outdoors allows your body to absorb UV B radiation, which is converted to vitamin D. Professionals recommend spending 10 to 30 minutes outside several times per week to soak up the sun. Did you know your general health isn\u2019t the only thing that relies on vitamin D? Your oral health depends on it, too.\u00a0<\/p>\n

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Vitamin D and Dental Health<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Your teeth are a living and functioning part of your body. They aren\u2019t inanimate objects that only need to be cleaned. Instead, they require vitamins and minerals to stay strong and healthy. Calcium is most notably known for its benefits to dental health, but vitamin D is equally important. Your body needs it to absorb calcium. If vitamin D deficiency occurs, your bones and teeth can be compromised. Your enamel can be less resistant to decay, increasing your risk of cavities<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Vitamin D deficiency will also lower your immune system because the regulation of cells needed to fight infections will decline. As a result, you\u2019ll be more vulnerable to infections, like gum disease. Although gum disease is preventable, at least 50% of Americans have it, and it’s even a leading cause of tooth loss.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Research has found that 42% of adult Americans are vitamin D deficient. While it is common, your smile and wellness don\u2019t need to become a victim of the deficiency. Restoring your vitamin D levels could be as simple as taking an afternoon walk. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are You Getting Enough Vitamin D?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Healthcare professionals recommend people 1 to 70 years old receive 600 IU (international units) of vitamin D every day by spending at least 10 to 20 minutes outdoors daily. Unfortunately, many people aren\u2019t aware they are not getting enough vitamin D until after having a routine blood test. However, various signs may indicate your intake isn\u2019t up to par, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n