ANTIOXIDANTS IN PERIODONTAL HEALTH AND DISEASE

Antioxidants play a crucial role in periodontal health by counteracting oxidative stress generated during the host inflammatory response to periodontal pathogens. In periodontal disease, excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by neutrophils and other immune cells leads to tissue damage, collagen breakdown, and alveolar bone resorption, contributing to disease progression. Antioxidants-both enzymatic (such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase) and non-enzymatic (including vitamins C and E, polyphenols, carotenoids, and flavonoids)-help neutralize ROS, thereby limiting oxidative damage and modulating inflammation. Reduced antioxidant capacity has been consistently observed in patients with periodontitis, suggesting an imbalance between oxidants and antioxidants. Adequate dietary intake or therapeutic supplementation of antioxidants may enhance periodontal defense mechanisms, support healing, and improve clinical outcomes when used as an adjunct to conventional periodontal therapy.