The Effect of Vitamin D Deficiency on Periodontal Disease

Vitamin D, also known as the "sunshine vitamin," is made by the body through exposure to the sun. Most Americans have blood vitamin D levels far below the recommended values. There are, however, many factors that reduce sunlight exposure. These include sunscreen, clothing, age, pollution, and limited outdoor activity. Because of these factors, people today receive far less exposure to ultraviolet radiation compared to our ancestors.

Vitamin D is essential for proper metabolism of calcium which aids in the development and maintenance of healthy teeth and bones.

Many scientific articles indicate that Vitamin D and calcium deficiencies result in bone loss and increased inflammation, which are well recognized symptoms of periodontal (gum) disease.

Research also shows that the best means of obtaining the required amount of vitamin D is from sunshine. The recommended exposure is 10 to 15 minutes of sun exposure at least two times per week to the face, arms, hands or back. People who live in an area with limited sun exposure may want to eat foods fortified with vitamin D such as milk, eggs, sardines and tuna fish.

I am not encouraging people to forget about their sunscreen nor to spend prolonged periods of time in the sunbathing. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, there is no such thing as a total UV block. Even the most effective sunscreens currently on the market let through enough UV to allow for adequate vitamin D formation. But if you feel that you are not getting proper sun exposure then supplementation may be necessary. A simple blood test can determine vitamin D blood levels.

Periodontal diseases are bacterial infections that, if left untreated, may cause damage to the bone and even tooth loss. A number of other infectious diseases have also been linked with low levels of vitamin D. It has been demonstrated that vitamin D can suppress proinflammatory cytokine production. (Proinflammatory cytokines are molecules that circulate in the blood and have destructive effects throughout the body.)

Periodontal disease increases the production of cytokines, but it has been demonstrated that vitamin D can suppress cytokine production, and possibly decrease the risk of periodontal disease.
Research has shown improvement in response to periodontal disease treatment for those patients who were being supplemented with Vitamin D and calcium. Vitamin D and calcium supplementation alone does not combat periodontal disease. The most effective treatment options are those that combine effective and gentle periodontal treatment with adequate supplementation.