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Adequate levels of vitamins and minerals are crucial to an individual’s proper growth and development, as well as maintenance of good oral health. When a person has a deficiency of one or more of these substances, symptoms may affect various areas of the body, including the mouth and teeth.

Vitamins are organic substances (which contain carbon and hydrogen) that help maintain the body’s normal metabolic functions. Minerals are inorganic substances (which do not contain carbon and hydrogen) that are also essential to metabolic functions and nutrition. For the most part, these substances come from sources outside the body -- mainly the diet.

People have individual needs for vitamins and minerals based on their age, gender, physical health, daily activity regimen, and whether or not they are pregnant or breastfeeding. Most people who do not have illnesses or other special conditions can get the required amount of vitamins and minerals simply by eating a well-balanced diet. However, numerous studies have shown that most people do not get the recommended amount of these substances. The exact effect of the widespread, slight deficiency in vitamins and minerals is unknown, but many nutritionists recommend at least basic supplementation to bring intake of vitamins and minerals in line with United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommendations.

Severe vitamin deficiencies can have acute effects. Patients may experience a burning sensation of the tongue and mouth. Patients may have swallowing difficulties and the tongue may feel like it is swollen and appear pale. Some deficiencies of the B vitamins may cause paleness and weakness of the tissue in the inner cheek, or excessive salivation. Mineral deficiencies can cause similar problems, and may contribute to improper development of the teeth or the bones of the mouth.