Author:
Ali Mohammed Khaleel Al‐Balki
Page: 18-21
Published online: 28 Jun 2025
https://doi.org/10.36478/acejrsb.2024.18.21
Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the oral cavity that develops as a consequence of microbial infection. In advanced cases, it can lead to the destruction of supporting tooth structures and eventual tooth loss. Beyond its local effects, periodontitis has been associated with systemic inflammation, contributing to broader health complications. One key mechanism implicated in this process is oxidative stress, which arises from an imbalance between pro‐oxidants and the antioxidant defense system. This study aimed to investigate the involvement of oxidative stress in both local and systemic manifestations of periodontitis by measuring malondialdehyde (MDA) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in saliva and serum samples. The findings indicate that periodontitis is associated with increased oxidative stress, both locally and systemically. The elevated MDA levels and decreased TAC suggest a disrupted redox balance, which may contribute to the progression of tissue damage and potentially influence systemic health outcomes. Measuring oxidative stress biomarkers, particularly in saliva, could serve as a useful, non‐invasive tool in the diagnosis and prognosis of periodontitis. These results underscore the importance of oxidative stress in the pathophysiology of periodontal disease and support its consideration in clinical assessments.