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, enamel integrity, dietary habits, sun exposure, parathyroid hormone.
Abstract
Background: Dental caries remains a widespread oral health problem, influenced by multiple factors, including diet, oral hygiene, and fluoride exposure. Recent evidence suggests that vitamin D and calcium metabolism may also play a significant role in the development and progression of caries. Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption and tooth mineralization, while calcium contributes 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 serum vitamin D and calcium levels and the presence of dental caries among individuals attending the dental outpatient department at Women Medical and Dental College, Abbottabad. The study also explored the role of dietary habits, sun exposure, and oral hygiene practices in influencing dental health.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted over one year, from January 2023 to January 2024, involving 87 participants. Each individual underwent an oral examination to assess dental caries using the Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth (DMFT) Index. Blood samples were collected to measure serum vitamin D, calcium, phosphorus, and parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels. Dietary habits, oral hygiene routines, and sunlight exposure were recorded through a structured questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed to determine associations between biochemical markers 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 an increased prevalence of dental caries (p = 0.001)’. Participants with lower serum calcium levels also had a higher incidence of caries (p = 0.029). Additionally, individuals ‘with limited sun exposure and poor dietary calcium intake were more likely to have lower vitamin D levels and higher DMFT scores’. Those who consumed dairy regularly and practiced good oral hygiene had better dental health outcomes.
Conclusion: This study supports the role of vitamin D and calcium metabolism in maintaining dental 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 health initiatives promoting balanced nutrition, routine dental care, and lifestyle modifications may help reduce 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 Dental College, 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