IMPORTANCE OF MICRONUTRIENTS IN THE ORAL CAVITY [ZNAČAJ MIKRONUTRIJENATA U USNOJ DUPLJI]

Micronutrients play a potent role in the functioning of the different systems of the organism. It is necessary to sustain an adequate status of the micronutrients for maintaining the optimal condition of the oral cavity. Deficiency of vitamin B12, potassium, copper, selenium and fluorine increases the risk of dental caries. Usually, people suffering from chronic inflammatory bowel disease lack vitamin B12 and potassium, while patients withchronic kidney failure lose a lot of selenium, so they are likely to have dental caries. Vitamins C, B9, E, calcium, zinc, copper and iron have antiinflammatory properties and act as antioxidants as well. Lack of these micronutrients is the main culprit for the development of periodontitis. Deficiency of vitamins C and B9 increases bleeding of the gums and interrupt the normal process of collagen formation. People with chronic inflammatory bowel disease as well as children and pregnant/breastfeeding women usually lack these vitamins. Vitamins D, C, E, A, iron, zinc, copper and selenium are necessary for the adequate functioning of the immune system. Those who are prone to deficiencies in these micronutrients should especially carefully follow uppreventive measures against oral infections. Finally, vitamin D and calcium are required for the normal development of hard tissues of the organism. Their deficiency not only impedes mineral metabolism in dentine and enamel but also decreases the mineral density of the bones. This leads to decreased anchoring capability of the alveoli and may result in tooth loss. © 2021 Medicinski fakultet Niš. Klinika za stomatologiju Niš. Sva prava zadržana. All Rights Reserved.