Most people know that vitamin C is essential for maintaining a healthy immune system. Vitamin C is an essential nutrient that plays a vital role in many bodily functions. It is also necessary for the production of collagen, which is a protein that is found in connective tissue and helps to keep our teeth and gums healthy.* Vitamin C deficiency may be one of the leading causes of gum disease (study).*

The importance of vitamin C for oral health

Vitamin C plays a vital role in oral health. It helps to keep the gums healthy by promoting collagen production (study) and helping to reduce certain types of inflammation (study).* Vitamin C also helps to fight off bacterial infections that can lead to tooth decay and gum disease, such as periodontitis, for specific populations (study).*

A lack of vitamin C can lead to bleeding gums, one of gum disease's first signs (study).* If left untreated, gum disease may progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease that can lead to tooth loss. Therefore, it's important to ensure you get enough vitamin C in your diet to maintain healthy gums and teeth.

Vitamin C and tooth decay

Vitamin C may also be important for preventing tooth decay (study).* Vitamin C may help increase saliva production, which neutralizes the acids that cause tooth decay. Saliva also contains minerals that help to strengthen tooth enamel. Vitamin C supplements may also help play a role in plaque formation in teeth (study).*

Good sources of vitamin C include citrus fruits, white potatoes, strawberries, cauliflower, bell peppers, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, kale, and papaya. You can also get your daily dose of vitamin C from supplements.* 

Vitamin C is an important nutrient for overall health. Still, it is also essential for keeping your teeth and gums healthy. A lack of vitamin C can lead to bleeding gums and gum disease. To prevent vitamin C deficiency and maintain healthy teeth and gums, eat foods rich in vitamin C or potentially use a teeth & gum supplement that offers vitamin C or liposomal vitamin C if you have a vitamin C deficiency.* You may also want to read about liposomal vitamin C.

As always, talk to your doctor before taking any supplements. Get professional advice if you think you might need a vitamin C supplement, a teeth & gums vitamin formula, or are already taking one to ensure you're not exceeding the amounts you may need.