Vitamin D deficiency linked to increased risk of oral disease

This month, we’re featuring the article “Vitamin D deficiency and oral health: a systematic review of literature,” which analyzed 57 studies published between 2013 and 2024 and found that 16 showed strong links between low vitamin D levels and oral health problems.

What low vitamin D means for your mouth

The review drew from trusted sources like PubMed, SpringerLink and Google Scholar to understand how vitamin D deficiency (VDD) may contribute to issues such as gum disease, cavities and slower healing after dental work.

Key findings:

Low vitamin D intake was found to increase these oral health problems:

• Gum disease: Ten studies found that low vitamin D worsens gum disease by causing more swelling and slowing down healing.
• Cavities: Three studies linked VDD to higher cavity risk. Low vitamin D during late pregnancy may raise a child’s cavity risk by age 6.
• Tooth development: One study showed that vitamin D helps enamel — the hard outer layer of the tooth — form the right way so teeth don’t become weak or break easily.
• Mouth sores (stomatitis): Two studies connected low vitamin D to mouth sores.
• Other conditions:
  • Oral lichen planus
  • Yeast infections in the mouth (oral candidiasis), especially in people with weak immune systems
  • Serious jaw problems like osteonecrosis of the jaw

Vitamin D helps keep teeth strong, lowers cavity risk and supports healthy gums. And while researchers are still studying how supplements may help prevent oral problems, getting enough vitamin D is an easy way to support your smile at any age.

Sources:

PubMed: Vitamin D deficiency and oral health: a systematic review of literature

The information contained herein is for information and educational purposes only. This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice.