Hormonal Transition and Osseointegration: Evaluating the Nexus between Vitamin D Status and Peri-Implant Health and Disease in Women.

Abstract

Background: Vitamin D plays a pivotal role in bone metabolism and immune regulation, both of which are fundamental to peri-implant health and overall human wellbeing. Postmenopausal women are particularly susceptible to vitamin D deficiency due to hormonal alterations, a condition that may predispose them to peri-implant disease and compromise implant success. Addressing this deficiency through evidence-based medicine has important implications for maintaining oral health and mitigating broader public health concerns related to implant failure.

Aim: To evaluate and compare the correlation between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] levels and peri-implant clinical and radiographic parameters among premenopausal and postmenopausal women.

Methods: This cross-sectional study included 180 female patients with functional dental implants placed at least 12 months prior to recruitment. Group I consisted of 90 premenopausal women, while Group II included 90 postmenopausal women. Peri-implant probing depth (PPD) and crestal bone level (CBL) were assessed clinically and radiographically. Serum 25(OH)D levels were measured using electrochemiluminescence immunoassay. Data were analyzed using unpaired t-tests and Pearson correlation.

Results: Postmenopausal women exhibited significantly lower serum 25(OH)D levels (18.0 ± 0.6 ng/mL) compared to premenopausal women (34.5 ± 0.8 ng/mL), along with greater PPD and CBL (p < 0.05). A significant moderate negative correlation was found between serum 25(OH)D and both PPD and CBL in both groups, stronger in postmenopausal women (r = -0.64 for PPD, -0.47 for CBL).

Conclusion: Vitamin D deficiency is associated with increased peri-implant probing depth and crestal bone loss, particularly in postmenopausal women. Screening and correcting vitamin D levels may enhance implant outcomes in this population.