Vitamin C – For Healthy and Strong Gums

Vitamin C is essential for supporting the collagen in the gums, controlling inflammation, and promoting better healing. At Plexus Dental Studio, it has been observed that patients with vitamin C deficiency often show signs of bleeding gums and delayed healing after procedures such as scaling, tooth extraction, and cosmetic surgeries requiring soft‑tissue correction. If bleeding gums persist despite good oral hygiene, professional evaluation is necessary, as it may indicate underlying gum disease that needs targeted bleeding gums treatment

Sources: Citrus fruits like oranges, amla, berries, leafy greens, and capsicum.  

Dr. Esha Parikh emphasizes the intake of vitamin C for patients with frequent bleeding gums or those undergoing soft‑tissue procedures for improved healing.

Vitamin D – The Key to Calcium Utilization

Vitamin D is one of the most essential vitamins for teeth, as it helps the body absorb calcium effectively, strengthening the teeth, jawbone, and supporting long-term oral health. This in turn makes the teeth and jawbone stronger and supports dental implants by improving bone integration. It also helps reduce bone loss. Patients with vitamin D deficiency often show reduced bone density on dental X-rays, which can affect the long-term success of treatments like dental crowns or dental implants.

Sources: Early morning sunlight exposure, fortified milk, eggs, and fatty fish. In vegetarians with minimal or no sunlight exposure, vitamin D supplements may be taken—but only under medical supervision.

At Plexus Dental Studio X‑rays often reveal low bone density in patients with vitamin D deficiency.

Calcium and Phosphorus – Building Blocks of the Teeth

Calcium is the primary mineral in teeth and bones. Phosphorus works together with calcium to harden and repair tooth enamel, maintaining strength and resilience.

Sources:Milk and milk products such as curd, paneer, and cheese; ragi; sesame seeds; almonds; dals; fish; and meat.  

Patients and their children are advised to increase calcium and phosphorus intake to maintain strong, healthy teeth.

Vitamin A – The Fighter Against Cancer

Studies have shown that vitamin A, a powerful antioxidant, has chemo‑preventive effects and reduces the risk of oral cancers. It helps prevent tissue damage by neutralizing free radicals released during normal metabolic reactions.

Sources: Carrots, pumpkin, sweet potato, spinach, eggs, and dairy products.

For patients showing visible signs of precancerous lesions like leukoplakia or oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF), vitamin A derivatives (retinoids) are part of the first line of treatment for remission.

B‑Complex Vitamins – For Ulcers and Nerve Support

B‑complex vitamins such as B2, B3, B6, B12, and folate help reduce mouth ulcers, relieve burning sensations, and support nerve health. Many patients delay treatment due to common misconceptions about oral problems being “temporary” or “stress-related.” Clearing such misunderstandings early like those discussed in dental care myths vs facts helps prevent long-term complications.

Sources: Whole grains, green leafy vegetables, dals, eggs, milk, and meat.

Vitamin B12 is best obtained from animal sources or supplements, especially in vegetarians.  

At Plexus Dental Studio, patients with recurrent mouth ulcers or burning sensations — in conditions such as OSMF or fissured tongue are advised to get their blood tested for B12 and folate levels.

Vitamin K and Other Essential Minerals

Vitamin K plays a crucial role in blood clotting, making it especially important before surgical dental procedures such as tooth extractions, implant placement, or wisdom tooth removal.

Sources: Leafy greens and certain fermented foods.  

Other important minerals that support dental health include magnesium, zinc, and antioxidants, which promote healing, improve immunity, and strengthen enamel.

Fluoride – The Ultimate Cavity Fighter

Fluoride has antibacterial and anticariogenic properties. Adequate fluoride intake during early tooth development is vital, as its deficiency can lead to hypomineralized tooth structures that are prone to decay. In children, topical fluoride application is one of the best preventive measures against dental caries.  

Fluoride also slows demineralization by inhibiting bacterial growth and metabolic activity.

Sources: Drinking water is the main source of fluoride. Controlled fluoridation of water has been implemented in many areas due to its proven benefits. Other sources include tea, seafood with edible bones, and dental products like fluoridated toothpaste.

At Plexus Dental Studio, we always advise our patients to use fluoridated toothpaste to prevent early dental caries. Children are also recommended to receive professional topical fluoride gel applications since they are more susceptible to cavities.