Journal of Orofacial & Health Sciences
Year : 2010, Volume : 1, Issue : 2
First page : ( 45) Last page : ( 49)
Print ISSN : 0976-5360.

Melatonin: Its Role in Periodontal Disease

Dr. Ranganath V., Professor and Head, Dr. Nichani Ashish S., Professor, Dr. Akshata K.R., Post-Graduate Student

Department of Periodontology, AECS Maaruti College of Dental Sciences & Research Centre, Bangalore.

Abstract

Although periodontal diseases are initiated by bacteria that colonize the tooth surface and gingival sulcus, the host response is believed to play an essential role in the breakdown of connective tissue and bone, key features of the disease process. Identification of the factors that regulate tolerance and control the appearance of exacerbated inflammatory conditions is crucial for development of new therapies of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Melatonin is synthesized and secreted by the pineal gland and other organs. Melatonin is known to have powerful antioxidant effects, functions in an immune-modulatory role, protection against certain cancers, delays some age-related processes, stimulates the synthesis of type I collagen fibres, and promotes bone formation. It is released into the saliva and may have important implications in periodontal disease. Diseases of the periodontium are known to be aggravated by free radicals and by alterations in the immune response to microorganisms that are present in plaque. In response to periodontal inflammation, the blood and salivary levels of melatonin may increase thereby playing an important role in periodontal disease.

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Keywords

Melatonin, Periodontal Disease, Antioxidant.

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