If your teeth are discolored, you know how it can affect your smile and self-confidence. Tooth discoloration is a common dental concern caused by the food and drinks you consume or tobacco use. However, it could also be caused by an underlying health condition or a vitamin deficiency. So, what vitamin deficiencies can cause tooth discoloration?
Vitamin Deficiencies Can Affect Your Smile
Fortunately, you can often reverse tooth discoloration caused by vitamin deficiency by making dietary changes. The most common deficiencies that affect your smile include the following:
Calcium deficiency — You need calcium to keep your teeth and bones strong and healthy; insufficient amounts in your diet can lead to tooth discoloration and tooth loss.
Vitamin B12 deficiency — This essential vitamin helps eliminate bacteria in your mouth, preventing plaque from building up and causing tooth discoloration. If your teeth are stained and your gums are unusually red, you may need to incorporate more B12 into your diet.
Vitamin D deficiency — Without enough vitamin D, your body can’t absorb calcium, and this can lead to tooth decay. You need vitamin D and calcium to maintain strong tooth enamel and avoid discoloration.
Preventing Tooth Discoloration from Vitamin Deficiency
Your family dentist can help you determine what’s causing your tooth discoloration, but if it’s due to a vitamin deficiency, you can follow these tips to improve your smile’s appearance:
- Eat a well-balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Take a daily multivitamin and other supplements specific to your deficiency.
- Drink plenty of water, at least eight glasses each day.
- Exercise regularly to stay healthy.
- Limit the amount of red wine, coffee, soy sauce, and tomatoes you consume.
- Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes.
- Floss your teeth every day.
- Visit your dentist for regular dental cleanings.
- Avoid tobacco products.
Need Information about Children’s Dentistry in Northborough, MA?
When you need porcelain crowns in Northborough, or if you’d like to find a family dentist you can trust, consider the expert dental team at Northborough Family Dental! We would love to welcome you to our dental office and show you what caring, compassionate dentistry looks like.
So, if you're searching online for the “best dentist near me,” you’ve come to the right place. Call (508) 393-2522 to schedule a consultation or appointment.