Which of the following is a sign or symptom of celiac disease in childhood related to dental health?

• A. Dental enamel defects
• B. Metabolic syndrome
• C. Myopia
• D. Alopecia

Answer: (A)

Dental enamel defects reflect disruption of enamel formation during childhood when gluten-driven intestinal damage causes malabsorption of nutrients crucial for tooth development. In celiac disease, deficiencies in calcium, phosphate, vitamin D, and zinc can impair enamel matrix formation, leading to enamel hypoplasia, pits, or discoloration on developing teeth. These enamel changes can be an early dental clue in children with undiagnosed celiac disease, since they arise as permanent teeth form in early childhood. The other options do not manifest as dental health signs linked to celiac disease in kids.