Flavonoids and periodontal tissue: Exploring the link

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are free radical molecules obtained from biotransformation of molecular oxygen. Oxidative stress is referred as oxidative damage produced by free radicals, and has been associated with many diseases including periodontitis. Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease resulting in loss of attachment and bone loss. There is over production of ROS in periodontitis, imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants locally result in destruction of periodontal tissues. Flavonoids are naturally occurring compounds known for various actions, such as, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant properties. The objective of this review is to provide an outline on the biological actions of flavonoids and their beneficial effects on periodontal tissues.