Correlation between vitamin D blood levels and implant success: a prospective cohort study

Abstract

Background: Vitamin D is a fat-soluble hormone that can be produced in the skin by Ultra-Violet (UV) light exposure or acquired through diet. Vitamin D is currently of relevance to dentists placing dental implants because it plays a role in bone metabolism and controls the immune system. There is some evidence that the osseointegration process of dental implants is favorably correlated with the proper concentration of this prohormone. Several studies have demonstrated that vitamin D may be crucial for both the integration of the implant into bone tissue and the postoperative tissue repair process.

Aim: The aim of this study was to find out if there was a correlation between serum vitamin D levels and implant success.

Methods: This study was conducted on 100 patients divided into two equal groups who received single dental implant to restore single missing tooth. After implant placement, patients were not advised to receive any supplements for 3 months. Patient’s serum level of vitamin D was tested after 3 months of implant placement (osseointegration period). Clinical and radiographic assessment of dental implants were performed after 3 months postoperatively.

Results: Statistical analysis showed no statistical significance results (P value 0.277) regarding the positive correlation between vitamin D levels and implant success/ failure, it also showed no statistical significance (P value 0.663) regarding the relationship between Vitamin D levels and implant success/failure based on the implant location.

Conclusion: Serum vitamin D level has no direct effect on the success or failure of dental implants.