Carotenoids and Periodontal Diseases

Carotenoids are prenol lipids and make up the cluster of C40 isoprenoids. Being ubiquitous plant metabolites, they are integral part of human diet. Carotenoids have extended polyene chromophores and can have hexyl-rings on ends. The range of chemical structures are due to modifications in their core skeleton, shifting of c.d.b. and attachment of various functional groups to the terminal rings.They have remarkable property to support human health in a wholistic approach. They mainly exert their health-promoting effects through their strong antioxidant potential. The observational, experimental (in vivo, in vitro) and animal studies have indicated beneficial effects of carotenoids especially lycopene for treatment of periodontal diseases. Periodontitis is a polymicrobial infection that inflames the gingiva, leading to loss of teeth by inflammation-mediated bone resorption. An array of studies indicate carotenoids consumption can be a promising remedy for periodontitis treatment.