Effect of Serum Vitamin D Level on Oral Health Status of Children

Background:
Vitamin D, also known as the “sunshine vitamin,” plays a vital role in
human health by regulating calcium and phosphorus levels, which are
essential for bone and teeth mineralization. Vitamin D deficiency has
been linked to significant oral health issues, including defective tooth
mineralization, periodontitis, and gingival inflammation.

Objective:
To investigate the relationship between serum vitamin D levels and oral
health status in children aged 6-12 years.

Methods:
The case-control study included 30 children with poor oral health
(cases) and 30 children with good oral health (controls), matched by age
and gender. Serum vitamin D levels were measured using a Cobas e 411
analyzer, and oral health status was assessed using the Decayed,
Missing, and Filled Teeth/Surface (DMFT/S) index.Statistical analysis
included descriptive analysis, independent t-tests, multiple linear
regression andPearson correlation.

Results:
Vitamin D was significantly low in children with dental caries
(Mean±SD 17.12±6.87 versus 37.30±5.32, p<0.0001). Vitamin D level
was significantly associated with higher DMF score (p=0.006), whereas
tooth brushing was significantly associated with lower DMF score
(p=0.039). Regarding the DMF scores in the study groups with dif�ferent
levels of vitamin D, there was a significant difference in DMF scores
between the groups (p=0.025). The highest mean DMF score was found
in children with deficient levels (6.14±2.68), while the lowest value was
found in children with sufficient levels of vitamin D (4.15±2.38).

Conclusions:
Vitamin D deficiency appears to be significantly associated with poor
oral health, including a higher prevalence of dental caries. Adequate
vitamin D levels through diet, supplementation, and sun exposure may
play a critical role in maintaining optimal oral health.