Role of Vitamin C and Vitamin E in Periodontal Disease

Studies concerning the association between vitamin C and vitamin E levels and periodontal disease are being conducted since many years. In this chapter, the studies published after 1980 are described. A number of studies during this period have demonstrated the association of plasma/serum vitamin C levels with periodontal disease and significant associations between a decreased intake of vitamin C and an increased risk of periodontal disease have been found. Although the efficacy of vitamin C intake on gingival status also has been revealed, its effect on alveolar bone loss is questionable. The number of studies on vitamin E is lower than that on vitamin C; therefore, the effects of vitamin E on periodontal disease are currently unclear. Data collected from the literature suggest that vitamin C may be a potent substance for preventing gingivitis and maintaining healthy periodontal tissues; however, additional research is required to generate conclusive evidence.