Vitamin D and its Influence on Oral Health: A Literature Review

Abstract

Vitamin D is a steroid hormone that has long been recognized for its function in calcium and phosphorus regulation and bone mineralization. As dentists, we are well aware of the role it plays in tooth growth and mineralization. Vitamin D, in addition to supporting calcium homeostasis, appears to control a variety of physiologic processes. Vitamin D deficiency though appears as a single element deficiency its impact on the entire human body is tremendous. It is a growing health issue but still awareness and the importance of maintaining adequate levels in the body is not known by most of the population. Vitamin D deficiency affects individuals of all ages, including those born to aged adults. In this article, we will be focusing on the function physiological action, and pharmacology of vitamin D. We will also review how vitamin D insufficiency affects dental caries, child oral health, periodontium, orthodontic tooth movement, and oral cancer.