systematic_review
    2025

    Vitamin D serum levels and temporomandibular disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis

    Tabrizi R, et al.

    Published in Archives of Oral Biology

    Methodology

    Systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies comparing serum 25(OH)D concentrations between patients with temporomandibular disorders and healthy controls, pooling mean differences and deficiency prevalence.

    Key Findings

    Meta-analysis of observational studies found patients with temporomandibular disorders had significantly lower serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels than controls, with a pooled mean difference of several ng/mL, and vitamin D deficiency was more prevalent among those with painful TMD subtypes.

    Conclusions

    Lower vitamin D levels are associated with temporomandibular disorders, but the observational evidence cannot establish causation and no adequately powered supplementation trial yet shows symptom benefit.

    Limitations

    Included studies were cross-sectional or case-control with small samples, substantial heterogeneity in TMD diagnostic criteria and vitamin D assays, no control for sun exposure, activity or BMI in many studies, and possible reverse causation.

    Supplements Studied

    Vitamin D
    Vitamin

    Considering the low to very low certainty of the evidence, vitamin D serum levels are significantly lower, and vitamin D deficiency is significantly more prevalent in TMD patients.

    Related Health Concerns

    Study Details

    Year:2025
    Quality Score:6/10

    Disclosures

    Funding

    University research funding

    This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.