Influence of Vitamin D3 Deficiency on the Development of Malocclusions

Background: Insufficient or excessive growth of the craniofacial bone leads to skeletal and dental defects, which in turn result in the presence of malocclusions. To date, all causes of malocclusion have not been fully explained. In the development of skeletal abnormalities, attention is often paid to general deficiencies - including vitamin D3 deficiency, which causes rickets in growing people. It is suspected that its chronic deficiency may also affect the development of skeletal malocclusion. The aim of the study was to prospectively assess the impact of vitamin D deficiency on the development of malocclusions. Methods: : The examination consisted of three parts - (1) medical interview, (2) orthodontic examination along with an alginate impression and radiological imaging, (3) taking a venous blood sample for vitamin D3 level testing. Results: : In about 42,1% patients the presence of a skeletal defect was found. In 46,5% of patients presence of dentoalveolar malocclusion occurred. The most common skeletal defect was jaw narrowing in turn, among malocclusions most often retrogenia was diagnosed. Conclusions: : A relatively small number of patients in the study group was diagnosed with skeletal malocclusion. Due to effects of vitamin D on the development and metabolism of bones, including jawbones, and the relationship with, for example, rickets, we believe that it would be worthwhile to conduct a study fully focused on the group of patients with skeletal defects.