Association of Vitamin D Deficiency with Caries Experience and Recurrent Oral Ulcers in Children: A Case-Control Study

Background Vitamin D plays a critical role in maintaining calcium homeostasis and modulating immune responses, both of which are fundamental to oral and dental health. Recent research indicates that vitamin D deficiency may contribute to an increased susceptibility to dental caries and recurrent aphthous ulcers in pediatric populations. Aim To evaluate the association between serum vitamin D levels, dental caries experience, and recurrent oral ulcers in children aged 6–12 years. Materials and Methods A case-control study was conducted among 100 children. Fifty children with clinically diagnosed vitamin D deficiency (serum 25(OH)D < 20 ng/mL) formed the case group, and 50 healthy children with sufficient vitamin D levels (≥ 30 ng/mL) served as controls. Dental caries experience was recorded using the dmft/DMFT index, and history of recurrent oral ulcers was documented using a structured questionnaire. Independent t-test and chi-square test were applied for statistical analysis, with p < 0.05 considered significant. Results Mean serum vitamin D levels were significantly lower in cases (15.6 ± 2.8 ng/mL) than in controls (32.4 ± 4.1 ng/mL; p < 0.001).The mean dmft/DMFT score was higher among deficient children (5.12 ± 1.4) compared to controls (2.48 ± 1.1) (p < 0.01). Recurrent oral ulcers were reported in 42% of vitamin D–deficient children versus 12% in controls (p < 0.01). Conclusion Vitamin D deficiency shows a significant correlation with greater dental caries experience and a higher occurrence of recurrent oral ulcers among children. Periodic screening for vitamin D levels may aid in preventing these oral conditions.