Biochemical Evaluation of the Effect of Green Tea on Nitric Oxide Radical in Patients with Chronic Periodontitis

Statement of the Problem: Periodontal disease is a periodontal tissue inflammation caused by gram-negative and other bacteria. The release of various cytokins and mediators, including nitric oxide, in the inflammation area usually has determental effects on the periodontium, potentiating the inflammatory process. In order to prevent this side effect, investigatiors have used antioxidants such as green tea or nitric oxide synthase inhibitors as a remedy. Purpose: In this study the effect of green tea on salivary nitric oxide radical was investigated in patients with chronic periodontitis. Materials and Methods: Two groups of patients (n=10), sufferring from chronic periodontitis as control and case groups, were evaluated. The case group used green tea for a period of four weeks. The control group received no intervention. At the end of this period the salivary total nitrite concentration as an indicator of nitric oxide was measured by ELISA technique based on Griess reaction. The results were compared statistically by paired-t-test at P<0.05. Results: Green tea reduced the salivary concentrations of nitric oxide significantly (P=0.000) in the case group in comparison with the control group which recieved no treatment. Conclusion: The results indicated that green tea may be considered a useful herb for treatment of chronic periodontitis.