Influence of vitamin D in orthodontic tooth movement—a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials in humans

Abstract Background Orchestration of tooth movement necessitates an equilibrium of bone synthesis and resorption. Vitamin D, through receptor-mediated actions, regulates the differentiation and maturation of osteoblasts and also induces osteoclastogenesis, maintaining this equilibrium. Objective To analyze the impact of vitamin D in orthodontic tooth movement (OTM). Search method A comprehensive exploration of the existing literature was conducted by systematic search through seven e-databases. Selection criteria The criteria for inclusion were established using the PICO format: Orthodontic patients treated with fixed appliance (P), administered with vitamin D3 (I), collated with appropriate control groups (C), with tooth movement as the primary outcome and root resorption, anchorage loss, gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) volume, pain perception, and alveolar bone density as the secondary outcome (O). Data collection and analysis After an extensive database search, 251 articles were obtained. Six articles were chosen following a stringent selection using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. The critical appraisal of randomized control trials (RCTs) involved the meticulous application of the RoB 2 tool. The quantitative synthesis incorporated a subset of six articles only. Results In the meta-analysis investigating the influence of vitamin D on OTM, a notable disparity was evident between the vitamin D and control groups. Specifically, the standardized mean difference (SMD) stood at 1.43, accompanied by a 95% confidence interval (CI) ranging from 0.691 to 2.169 (P = .00154). For root resorption, the SMD was recorded at −0.51, with a 95% CI spanning from −3.051 to 2.031 (P = .11). Conclusions The rate of tooth movement was enhanced by systemic and local administration of vitamin D. However, the inadequacy of available data is a hindrance in determining conclusively the impact of vitamin D on the extent of root resorption. The resolution of this quandary needs future human studies devoted toward investigating the influence of vitamin D in the realms of OTM and associated root resorption, thereby providing a definitive elucidation. Registration details Prospero- CRD42023491783