Could Vitamin K2 Be the Answer to Jawbone Loss?

To maintain strong bones and healthy teeth, you already know how important it is to get plenty of calcium and Vitamin D. However, there is another nutrient that you may not be ask knowledgeable about – Vitamin K2. This vitamin plays an important role in preventing jawbone deterioration. This issue affects those who have lost teeth, have gum disease, or are considering dental implants. Read on to learn more about Vitamin K2 and how it may be able to protect your jawbone.

Why Does the Jawbone Deteriorate?

Jawbone deterioration occurs when the jaw starts to shrink or weaken. This can happen after you lose one or more teeth because the tooth roots are no longer stimulating the jawbone when you chew your good, leading the bone to break down over time. This can also occur from untreated gm disease, poor dental hygiene, and other health issues. As the jawbone weakens, it can lead to facial sagging, loose teeth, and complications related to dentures or dental implants.

What Is Vitamin K2?

Vitamin K2 is a fat-soluble vitamin that you can find in some fermented foods, animal products, and dietary supplements. It works alongside calcium and vitamin D to activate the proteins that direct calcium to where it needs to go, such as the bones and teeth, and leading it away from soft tissues. Vitamin K2 promotes long-term bone health!

How Does Vitamin K2 Benefit Your Oral Health?

Here are some of the ways that vitamin K2 can support your oral health.

• Strengthens Enamel: When paired with vitamin D3, Vitamin K2 helps in the transport of calcium from your bloodstream to your bones and teeth. Vitamin K2 ensures that calcium is bioavailable to remineralize your teeth. Vitamin K2 even helps to bind calcium directly to your teeth by activating the osteocalcin protein.
• Reduces Inflammation: Research has shown that Vitamin K2 can help to reduce inflammation. Inflammation is a contributing factor of gum disease.
• Regulates Clotting: The earliest known health benefit of Vitamin K2 is the normalization of blood clotting. Blood clotting impacts oral health because of gum bleeding. Poor coagulation means more bleeding of the gums. Clotting is also necessary after dental procedures so your mouth can heal properly.

If you aren’t already, try to get some vitamin K2 in your diet. Dentists are continuing to learn more about this vitamin and how it can help to keep smiles healthy!

About the Author

At The DFW Dental Implant Center, dentist, Dr. Steven Branberg, and, anesthesiologist, Dr. Eric Cancemi work together to treat patients in the Colleyville area. With their combined experience and expertise, patients can get pretty much anything they need under one roof. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit her website or call (817) 440-7133.