Effects of vitamin D status on oral health

Publication date: Available online 1 February 2017
Source:The Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Author(s): Anne Marie Uwitonze, Julienne Murererehe, Marie Claire Ineza, Eliane Harelimana, Uziel Nsabimana, Peace Uwambaye, Agnes Gatarayiha, Afrozul Haq, Mohammed S. Razzaque
Normal humans of all ages have the innate ability to produce vitamin D following sunlight exposure. Inadequate vitamin D status has shown to be associated with a wide variety of diseases, including oral health disorders. Insufficient sunlight exposure may accelerate some of these diseases, possibly due to impaired vitamin D synthesis. The beneficial effects of vitamin D on oral health are not only limited to the direct effects on the tooth mineralization, but are also exerted through the anti-inflammatory functions and the ability to stimulate the production of anti-microbial peptides. In this article, we will briefly discuss the effect on the genesis of various oral diseases due to inadequate vitamin D level in the body and explain the potential benefits of safe sunlight exposure for the maintenance of oral and general health.

Graphical abstract

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