INVESTIGATING THE IMPACT OF VITAMIN D AND CALCIUM METABOLISM ON DENTAL CARIES
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Keywords
Dental caries,vitamin D, calcium metabolism, oral health, tooth mineralization, enamelintegrity, dietary habits, sun exposure, parathyroid hormone.
Abstract
Background:Dental caries remains a widespread oral health problem, influenced by multiplefactors, including diet, oral hygiene, and fluoride exposure. Recent evidence suggests that vitaminD andcalcium metabolism may also play a significant role in the development and progression ofcaries. Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption and tooth mineralization, while calciumcontributes to enamel strength. A deficiency in either nutrient may lead to weakened enamel,increasing susceptibility to decay.This study aimed to investigate the relationship between serumvitamin D and calcium levels and the presence of dental caries among individuals attending thedental outpatient department at Women Medical and Dental College, Abbottabad. The study alsoexplored the role of dietary habits, sun exposure, and oral hygiene practices in influencing dentalhealth.
Methods:A cross-sectional study was conducted over one year, from January 2023 to January2024, involving 87 participants. Each individual underwent an oral examination to assess dentalcaries using the Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth (DMFT) Index. Blood samples were collectedto measure serum vitamin D, calcium, phosphorus, and parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels. Dietaryhabits, oral hygiene routines, and sunlight exposure were recorded through a structuredquestionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed to determine associations between biochemicalmarkers and dental caries, with a p-value of <0.05 considered statistically significant.
Results:The findings showed a‘significant association between low vitamin D levels and anincreased prevalence of dental caries (p = 0.001)’. Participants with lower serum calcium levels alsohad a higher incidence of caries (p = 0.029). Additionally, individuals‘with limited sun exposureand poor dietary calcium intake were more likely to have lower vitamin D levels and higher DMFTscores’. Those who consumed dairy regularly and practiced good oral hygiene had better dentalhealth outcomes.
Conclusion:This study supports the role of vitamin D and calcium metabolism in maintainingdental health. Deficiencies in these nutrients were linked to a higher risk of dental caries,emphasizing the need for adequate vitamin D intake through diet and sun exposure. Public healthinitiatives promoting balanced nutrition, routine dental care, and lifestyle modifications may helpreduce the prevalence of caries and improve oral health outcomes.
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Dr. Momina Khan
Scholar, MPhil Oral Pathology, Khyber Medical University,Peshawar, Pakistan
Dr. Zaheer Ahmed Soomro
Assistant Professor,Department of Operative Dentistry & Endodontics, Jinnah Medical and Dental College, Karachi, Pakistan
Dr.Uzma Faryal
Professor, Department of Biochemistry, Women Medical College, Abbottabad, Pakistan
Dr. Rashid Iqbal
Assistant Professor, Department of Operative Dentistry and Endodontics, Bibi Aseefa DentalCollege, SMBBMU, Larkana, Pakistan
Dr. Muhammad Amin Sahito
Assistant Professor, Department of Community Dentistry, Dr. Ishrat Ul Ebad Khan Institute of
Oral Health Sciences, DUHS, Karachi, Pakistan
Dr. Mobeen Ali
Lecturer, Northwest Institute of Health Sciences, Peshawar, Pakistan