Lack of Sunlight Linked to Delayed Tooth Eruption in Children, Experts Warn

A growing number of pediatric health experts are raising concerns over the increasing cases of delayed tooth eruption in children across urban areas, and a new focus is being placed on one potential culprit: inadequate sunlight exposure.

Medical researchers and pediatric dentists have pointed to a consistent trend: children with limited exposure to sunlight are more likely to experience delays in the eruption of primary (baby) teeth.

The reason, they say, lies in a critical nutrient generated by the skin in response to sunlight vitamin D.

“We’re seeing more cases where toddlers reach 12 to 15 months without any teeth, which is beyond the normal eruption window,” said Dr. Miriam Wanjiku, a pediatric dentist at Nairobi Children’s Hospital.

“In many of these cases, the children’s diets are poor in vitamin D and they spend little time outdoors.”

Vitamin D and Tooth Development: An Overlooked Link

Vitamin D is essential for the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, the two minerals that form the building blocks of bones and teeth. When a child is deficient in vitamin D, calcium absorption decreases, directly impacting the strength and timing of tooth development.

According to a 2024 study by the Kenya Paediatric Association, approximately 31% of urban Kenyan children under the age of three were found to have insufficient vitamin D levels.

This percentage was significantly higher in children who live in apartments or attend daycare facilities where outdoor time is limited.

“Delayed tooth eruption isn’t just a cosmetic issue,” said Dr. Joseph Otieno, a pediatric nutritionist.

“It often signals that the body isn’t getting what it needs for proper bone and tooth formation, and this can affect speech development, chewing, and long-term dental health.”

Urban Lifestyles Reducing Sunlight Exposure

Health experts note that modern urban lifestyles, especially in cities like Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu, have contributed to reduced outdoor playtime among children.

Factors such as screen time, apartment living, security concerns, and air pollution have led many parents to keep children indoors for extended periods.

Further complicating the matter is the widespread use of sunscreen and heavy clothing, which, while protective against UV damage, also block the skin’s ability to produce vitamin D.

What Parents Can Do

Doctors recommend that children under five years old receive at least 15 to 30 minutes of direct sunlight daily, preferably in the morning or late afternoon, when UV rays are less intense but still effective.

Other preventive measures include:

Including vitamin D-rich foods in children's diets (such as eggs, fortified milk, sardines, and liver)

Supplementing with vitamin D drops or syrup if recommended by a pediatrician

Regular dental checkups starting from the child’s first birthday

“If your child hasn’t shown any teeth by the age of 12 months, don’t panic,” said Dr. Wanjiku.

“But do speak to a doctor or pediatric dentist. They may recommend blood tests to check vitamin D, calcium, or phosphorus levels.”

Public Health Outlook

The Ministry of Health has acknowledged the rising concern and is working with pediatric associations to raise awareness.

A community health campaign is expected to roll out later this year to encourage safe sunlight exposure and improved early childhood nutrition.

As cases of rickets and dental underdevelopment are increasingly linked to vitamin D deficiency, health professionals are calling on parents, schools, and communities to rethink how children interact with their environment.

“Sunlight is free and it's one of the most effective natural medicines for a growing child,” Dr. Otieno concluded.