Exploring the interplay of vitamin D, salivary antimicrobial peptides, and cytokines in oral immunity and disease prevention: an insight for implications in oral health policy

Within the study's limitations, a potential link between metabolic syndrome and compromised oral health was observed, as demonstrated by increased caries incidence and periodontal involvement. While variations in serum vitamin D and salivary AMPs did not achieve statistical significance, the findings suggest an altered host defense mechanism in metabolic syndrome patients. Larger, longitudinal studies are required to further elucidate these associations and emphasize the importance of routine oral screening in individuals with metabolic disorders, and the implementation of oral health polices is mandatory to maintain good oral health and well-being among both metabolic and non-metabolic populations.