Vitamin D deficiency has been implicated as an etiological factor in the delayed eruption of primary teeth. Several studies have shown that vitamin D deficiency can lead to delayed tooth eruption, incomplete calcification of dentin, and unclear lamina dura in primary and permanent teeth (Kim et al., 2018; Swapna & Abdulsalam, 2021). Vitamin D plays a crucial role in tooth and bone mineralization, and its deficiency can result in hypocalcified dentin and enamel hypoplasia (Swapna & Abdulsalam, 2021; Alshukairi, 2019). The formation of primary teeth is normal in individuals with vitamin D deficiency, but the eruption process is delayed (Jensen & Kreiborg, 1990; Kim et al., 2018).

Delayed eruption of primary teeth can also be caused by other factors such as mechanical obstruction from supernumerary teeth (Pan et al., 2017). Cleidocranial dysplasia (CCD) is a condition characterized by delayed eruption of permanent teeth and the presence of supernumerary teeth (Jensen & Kreiborg, 1990; Pan et al., 2017). In a study of patients with CCD, it was found that all patients except one had supernumerary permanent teeth, which could contribute to the delayed eruption of primary teeth (Jensen & Kreiborg, 1990). However, it is important to note that delayed eruption of primary teeth is relatively rare compared to permanent teeth (Matsuyama et al., 2015).

In addition to vitamin D deficiency, other systemic factors can also affect the eruption timing of primary teeth. Maternal factors such as smoke exposure during pregnancy, gestational age, and vitamin D levels have been found to possibly affect the eruption timing of the first deciduous tooth (Georgiadou et al., 2021). Malnutrition and growth stunting in children have been associated with delayed eruption of primary teeth (Fadilla et al., 2022; Setiawan et al., 2022). Chronic malnutrition can lead to hypoplasia and delayed eruption of primary teeth (Setiawan et al., 2022). Furthermore, maternal intake of vitamin D during pregnancy has been associated with the risk of childhood wheezing/asthma and the development of early childhood caries (Bener et al., 2011; Schroth et al., 2014).

It is important to consider the role of vitamin D in tooth development and eruption, as well as the potential impact of other systemic and local factors. Further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms underlying the relationship between vitamin D deficiency and delayed eruption of primary teeth. However, the available evidence suggests that maintaining adequate vitamin D levels and addressing other potential contributing factors may help prevent or mitigate delayed eruption of primary teeth.