Vitamin D – a key factor for bone and implants
Vitamin D not only supports immunity. In modern dentistry, it is considered one of the main factors of successful implant integration.
Vitamin D regulates the metabolism of calcium and phosphorus, necessary for the formation of strong bone.
Studies (Kwiatek et al.) show that patients with a sufficient level of vitamin D have better implant stability after 3–6 months of placement, as well as a lower risk of bone loss around the implant.
Vitamin D influences the functioning of the immune system, reducing the risk of inflammatory processes in the gums and around implants.
In Europe, up to 50% of the population in the winter period have a deficiency of vitamin D. In Ukraine, the situation is similar, therefore checking the level of this vitamin before implantation has special importance.
How we check the level of vitamin D
Traditionally, this was done in a laboratory, but now there are rapid in-office tests (15 minutes, a drop of blood from the finger). They allow the dentist to immediately assess risks and prescribe prevention or supplements.
Medications for osteoporosis and oncological diseases: what you need to know
Anti-resorptive drugs (bisphosphonates, Denosumab), which are prescribed for the treatment of osteoporosis and bone metastases, change the functioning of bone tissue cells.
They reduce the risk of fractures, but in dentistry they may create additional difficulties:
• increase the risk of development of jaw osteonecrosis (death of a bone area),
• even minor irritation of the mucosa or a prosthesis that rubs can cause serious complications,
• the risk especially increases after tooth extraction or surgical interventions.
Therefore, international protocols (S3-Guidelines, Germany) recommend, before starting such therapy, to undergo dental examination, treat inflammation, and stabilize the gums.
How we work with patients who take such medications
• We carry out full diagnostics and individual risk assessment (AGSMO form, which is used in leading clinics in Europe).
• We coordinate the treatment plan with the attending physician (endocrinologist or oncologist).
• We perform procedures as atraumatically as possible, with preventive antibiotics.
• We schedule frequent preventive check-ups to control the condition.
What this means for you as a patient
• Checking the level of vitamin D before implantation helps to avoid complications and increases the chances of success.
• If you take medications for osteoporosis or other bone diseases — this is not a contraindication for implants, but it requires a special approach.
• Treatment is carried out on the basis of international protocols, with the use of modern tests and materials.
At Yarema Dental, we combine expertise in gnathology, implantology, and interdisciplinary medicine so that the patient receives the safest and most long-lasting result.
How much vitamin D is needed?
Recommendations of international medical organizations (EFSA, Endocrine Society, D-A-CH) indicate:
- Adults for preventive purposes: 800–1000 IU (20–25 μg) per day, especially from October to April.
- In case of expressed deficiency (below 12 ng/ml): 2000–4000 IU per day may be required for several weeks under medical supervision.
- The maximum safe dose for an adult: 4000 IU/day (100 μg).
- It is important to consider body weight, age, and individual factors.
Our approach at Yarema Dental: before implantation, we recommend undergoing a test for vitamin D level. If there is a deficiency — the doctor selects individual dosage and duration of intake. This allows to reduce the risk of complications and increase the prognosis of successful implant integration.
Medications for osteoporosis and oncological diseases
Anti-resorptive drugs (bisphosphonates, Denosumab), which are used for the treatment of osteoporosis, may complicate healing and increase the risk of jaw osteonecrosis.
Therefore, before implantation, patients on such therapy require special preparation: thorough sanitation, atraumatic techniques, and monitoring by several doctors.
What this means for the patient
- Checking and correction of vitamin D level increases the chances of successful implantation.
- In case of taking medications for bone conditions, an individual treatment strategy is required.
- All procedures are carried out according to international safety protocols.
Vitamin D is the “vitamin of success” for dental implants. Proper diagnostics and timely prescription of supplements (on average 800–2000 IU/day) significantly reduce risks. At Yarema Dental, we use European protocols and modern tests to ensure stable results and long-term health of patients.