Vitamin D and Vitamin D Receptor Polymorphisms Relationship to Risk Level of Dental Caries

Abstract

Dental caries is a multifactorial disease with multiple risk factors. Vitamin D levels (VDLs) and vitamin D receptor polymorphisms (VDRPs) have been investigated for this reason. The aim of this narrative review is to investigate the relation and the factors affecting vitamin D deficiency (VDD), VDRP, Early Childhood Caries (ECC) and Severe Early Childhood Caries (S-ECC) in children (primary and mixed dentition) and dental caries risk in adults (permanent dentition). Additionally, we present a model incorporating factors and interactions that address this relationship. Methods: Three databases (PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, Cochrane Library) were comprehensively searched until 17 January 2023 using the following keywords: “vitamin D”, “vitamin D receptor polymorphism”, “dental caries”, and “dental caries risk”, finding 341 articles. Two reviewers searched, screened, and extracted information from the selected articles. All pooled analyses were based on random-effects models. Eligibility criteria were articles using dmft/DMFT diagnostic criteria with calibrated examiners, probability sampling, and sample sizes. We excluded studies conducted on institutionalized patients. A total of 32 studies were finally used. Results: In most studies, TaqI, FokI, and BsmI polymorphisms affected the prevalence of dental caries. A strong correlation between ECC, S-ECC, and the prevalence of dental caries was reported in association with VDD and maternal intake of VD in primary dentition. Regarding the influence in mixed dentition, the results were found to be inconclusive. A slight positive influence was reported for permanent dentition. Conclusions: Factors affecting caries risk were maternal intake, socioeconomic factors, and level of VD. There is a certain need for more well-conducted studies that will investigate the association between VDR gene polymorphisms and the prevalence of dental caries in mixed and permanent dentition, specifically in adult patients.

Ethics in the Food Ecosystem from Research to Consumption in Conjunction with Oral Health Significance for Sustainability and Spirituality Purposes—Mouth: The Sacred Gateway

“…For example, foods high in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits and leafy greens, promote gum healing and reduce inflammation. Dairy products fortified with calcium and vitamin D contribute to strong teeth and bones, while lean proteins facilitate tissue repair and maintenance (Αntoniadou and Varzakas 2021; Peponis et al 2023) [135,255]. Therefore, promoting a nutritious diet as part of oral health education and preventive care initiatives is essential for reducing the incidence and severity of periodontal disease.…”

Nutritional Factors Associated with Dental Caries across the Lifespan: A Review

“…Nutrient inadequacies, especially those pivotal to bone health, increase the susceptibility to bone loss and subsequent osteoporosis. The intricate process of bone formation demands a consistent supply of nutrients, such as calcium, protein, magnesium, phosphorus, vitamin D, potassium, and fluoride [48,49].…”

“…An array of nutrients, including calcium, vitamin D, protein, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium, actively contribute to bone and hard dental tissues health. A healthy and balanced diet, characterized by the inclusion of fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds, and lean proteins, inherently provides the essential nutrients indispensable for maintaining robust and functional bones and teeth [45,49].…”

“…Thus, persistent poor dietary quality is linked to the emergence of oral health issues later in life. Notably, oral health problems, such as tooth loss, periodontal disease, and dry mouth, are pervasive conditions among older individuals (≥65 years) and exert a substantial impact on both oral and general health [46,49,50].…”

An Update on Drug–Nutrient Interactions and Dental Decay in Older Adults

“…Therefore, reduced levels of this molecule can interfere with vitamin D levels. Thus, statin therapy, in addition to decreasing cholesterol production, can also contribute to the depletion of vitamin D [89,90]. There is also strong and plenty of evidence of the relationship between vitamin D deficiency and the development of myopathies [91].…”