Saliva as a diagnostic tool for evaluating oxidative stress in periodontitis and its correlation with tobacco habits: A cross sectional study

Abstract

Aims: The aim of this study was to assess oxidative stress (OS) caused by tobacco habits in the initiation and progression of periodontitis by evaluating the salivary uric acid (UA) and albumin (ALB) levels, which are indicators of antioxidant activity, and to compare their values with normal and healthy individuals with no tobacco habits. Settings and Design: A total of 75 subjects were divided into three study groups and were asked to collect unstimulated whole saliva in sterile plastic containers. Subjects and Methods: Groups A, B, and C comprised 25 subjects each, according to their respective inclusion and exclusion criteria. Subjects from all the three groups were asked to collect unstimulated whole saliva in sterile plastic containers, which were then sent for laboratory assessment of UA and ALB levels to determine the levels of OS in the saliva samples of each subject. Statistical Analysis Used: Independent student's t-test was used for statistical evaluation of the results of the present study. Results: Levels of salivary AOs, UA, and ALB were remarkably reduced in subjects having periodontitis, thereby exhibiting higher levels of OS. The levels of these AOs were further reduced with the use of tobacco in subjects already diagnosed with periodontitis. Conclusions: Significant OS occurs in periodontitis with tobacco being a probable risk factor. Thus, saliva can be used as a noninvasive diagnostic fluid with UA and ALB being promising biomarkers in monitoring periodontal disease and OS.