Association of Calcium and Vitamin D Supplementation with Dental Fluorosis among Adults in Peshawar, Pakistan

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the association between calcium and vitamin D supplementation and the prevalence of dental fluorosis among adults in Peshawar, Pakistan.
Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted over two months in Peshawar, Pakistan. Based on its prevalence in the area, a total of 370 participants, recruited from Hayatabad Medical Complex, Peshawar, were evaluated. Detailed history was taken from them according to a preformed history Performa. Participants were examined to check the presence of dental fluorosis. Subsequently, they were divided into two equal groups: Group A (calcium and vitamin D supplement user), and Group B, (not taking any calcium and vitamin D supplements). Data collected was analyzed by IBM SPSS Statistics software, version 22.
Results: Out of the total 370 patients, 195 (52.7%) indicated signs of fluorosis which included white opaque spots, yellow to brown discoloration, and chalky enamel appearance. 65 patients in group A and 130 patients in group B were found to be exhibiting dental fluorosis. The association between supplement use and fluorosis prevalence was statistically significant (p < 0.001). A relative risk reduction of 50% was observed among supplement users compared to non-users.
Conclusion: The findings indicate a significant association between calcium and vitamin D supplementation and a lower prevalence of dental fluorosis in adults. However, the cross-sectional design of the study limits us in establishing the causal relationships. Further longitudinal or interventional studies are recommended to explore this association in greater depth.
Keywords: Adults, Calcium, Cross-sectional studies, Dental fluorosis, Vitamin D