Low Calcium Intake and Hypovitaminosis D Negatively Affect Oral Health in Young Men

Abstract

Oral health and nutrition have a synergistic bidirectional relationship. Diet plays an important role in dental caries process, one of the main factors associated with high risk of tooth loss in adults. Conversely, tooth loss, pain and discomfort limit food choices which negatively affect nutritional status. The objective was to evaluate association between oral health and calcium (Ca) and vitamin D nutritional status, several dietary and life-style habits in young men. Materials and Methods: A total of 241 men (29.4±2.1 years) were studied. Ca intake (CaI) and protein intakes were recorded, and 25hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) was determined. Dental status and caries risk were assessed by Decayed (D), Missing (M) and Filled (F) Teeth, (DMFT) index, Löe Silness Plaque Index (PI) and sugar intake (SI). Results: Deficient CaI was observed in 48% of men; 71% had 25OHD