Vitamin D in the prevention and treatment of periodontal diseases: an integrative review

Abstract

Introduction: Vitamin D is synthesized from 7-dehydrocholesterol during a photochemical reaction, under the effect of ultraviolet radiation on the skin, obtained from food. It is hydroxylated in the liver to 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25(OH)D3). It is an active metabolite, which maintains the balance of calcium and phosphorus concentration in the blood, in addition to helping bone remodeling. Vitamin D deficiency promotes rickets in children and osteoporosis in adults, with a risk of bone fracture. Vitamin D acts in the pathogenesis of periodontal diseases via immunomodulation, increases mineral density and reduces bone resorption, which is important in combating agents that cause periodontal diseases. Objectives: Evaluate the importance of vitamin D in the prevention and treatment of periodontal diseases. Methods: A search was carried out in the PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Scielo, Embase, Web of Science and Google Scholar databases on scientifically proven evidence on the subject. Results: The present review demonstrated the importance of vitamin D in the prevention and treatment of periodontitis and the consequences of its deficiency on the oral health of patients. Conclusion: Vitamin D plays an important role in oral homeostasis and vitamin deficiency results in periodontal disease.