Evaluation of Serum Vitamin D and Calcium in Association with Caries Activity in Children

Abstract Background: Serum levels of Vitamin D and calcium are linked to various dental disorders, including dental caries. While Vitamin D deficiency is known to interfere with odontogenesis and mineralization, leading to defective enamel and dentine, the role of serum calcium in dental caries remains unclear. Aim: This study aims to evaluate the association between serum Vitamin D and calcium levels with caries activity in children. Materials and Methods: The study includes children aged 5-12, randomly divided into two groups based on the DMFT/dmft index. Group I comprises patients with DMFT/dmft ≤ 5 (no/low to moderate caries activity), and Group II includes those with DMFT/dmft > 5 (high caries activity). Caries status is evaluated using a mouth mirror and dental explorer. Serum Vitamin D and calcium levels are measured from blood samples at an ISO 9001:2015 certified lab. Results: The mean serum calcium levels for Group I and Group II are 9.86 mg/dl and 9.85 mg/dl, respectively, showing no significant difference (p < 0.95). However, serum Vitamin D levels differ significantly between the groups, with Group I having 24.18 ng/ml and Group II 15.21 ng/ml (p = 0.00002). This suggests that Vitamin D is a modifiable risk factor for dental caries. Other factors like oral hygiene, diet, socioeconomic status, and caregiver education should also be considered. Conclusion: Serum Vitamin D is associated with caries activity in children, whereas the role of serum calcium is inconclusive. Abbreviations: DMFT, decayed, missing, filled permanent teeth; dmft, decayed, missing, filled primary teeth; ISO, International Organisation for Standardisation; ALP, Alkaline Phosphatase.