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Vitamin Deficiency and Your Mouth

A deficiency in some vitamins and minerals can provide signs in the mouth that something is off. Vitamin C deficiency, also called scurvy, is a rare disease nowadays but is worth mentioning as most people have heard of it.

A deficiency in some vitamins and minerals can provide signs in the mouth that something is off.

Vitamin C deficiency, also called scurvy, is a rare disease nowadays but is worth mentioning as most people have heard of it.  It occurs when a lack of vitamin C is consumed over a prolonged period of time. The signs of scurvy can be severe gum bleeding, overgrowth of gum tissue and tooth mobility/loss.
 
B vitamins and folic acid are important for our oral health, specifically B12, B6, B3 and B2. A deficiency in these may show symptoms on the tongue such as glossiness, redness, burning and soreness.  The corners of the mouth/lips may be affected with cracks/fissures that do not heal regardless of use of lubrication. Ulcers may appear in the mouth and burning of the oral cavity may occur.
 
Vitamin A deficiency may make the mouth more dry (xerostomia)and white tissue may appear on the soft tissue in the mouth 
 
A deficiency in zinc may present with lip scaling and crusting, oral sores and a rash around the mouth.
 
A varied diet can help prevent vitamin and mineral deficiencies. If you suspect you have a deficiency or notice signs noted above visit your dentist or physician for a check-up. 
 
For more information about nutrition and oral health visit,
 

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