ANTIOXIDANTS in DENTISTRY

Antioxidants play a significant role in modern dentistry due to their ability to neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress which is a contributing factor in many oral diseases. Oxidative stress is particularly relevant in conditions such as periodontitis where chronic inflammation and tissue destruction are prevalent. In such cases antioxidants like Vitamin C Vitamin E and Coenzyme Q10 are used as adjuncts to conventional periodontal therapy to enhance healing and reduce inflammation. Similarly antioxidants are beneficial in the management of various oral mucosal disorders including oral lichen planus leukoplakia and oral submucous fibrosis. Natural compounds such as lycopene β-carotene and curcumin have shown promise in reducing oxidative damage in these conditions.