Published on March 2017 | Periodontology, Dentistry.

CoEnzyme Q10: A new horizon in the treatment of periodontal diseases

Periodontitis is an inflammatory process, initiated by the plaque biofilm that leads to loss of periodontal attachment to the root surface and adjacent alveolar bone and gradually results in tooth loss. Periodontal pathogens can induce reactive oxygen species overproduction and thus may cause collagen and periodontal cell breakdown. Reactive oxygen species and free radicals are thought to be involved in the pathogenesis of a variety of inflammatory disorders by increasing oxidative stress at the tissue and cellular level. Oxidative stress arises within tissues when the normal balance between reactive oxygen species generation and antioxidant defense is altered and excess of reactive oxygen species and/or a depletion of antioxidants occur. When reactive oxygen species are scavenged by antioxidants, there can be a reduction of collagen degradation. Various forms of antioxidants have been introduced as an approach to fight dental diseases and improve general gingival health. Coenzyme Q10 serves as an intercellular antioxidant and its concentration is increased in the diseased gingiva which effectively suppresses advanced periodontal inflammation. This article focuses on the effect of Coenzyme Q10 on treating periodontal disease.