A review on the role of polyphenols against periodontitis

Abstract

Periodontitis is a chronic, plaque-induced inflammatory disease characterized by polymicrobial infection and the progressive destruction of supporting periodontal tissues. While microbial biofilms initiate the disease, the host's immune-inflammatory response plays a central role in driving tissue damage and disease progression. Periodontitis represents a significant global health concern, affecting approximately 40 of the adult population worldwide. An estimated 743 million adults, approximately 10.8 , are affected by severe periodontitis, contributing to substantial morbidity and healthcare burden. Polyphenols, naturally occurring compounds found in foods and medicinal plants, exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities. Their therapeutic potential has been explored in various chronic diseases, including cancer and cardiovascular conditions. Due to the inflammatory and microbial components of periodontitis, polyphenols are increasingly studied as adjunctive agents for its prevention and management. Polyphenols modulate both innate and adaptive immune pathways, as well as cytokine production, and may help restore microbial balance by shifting dysbiotic communities toward a healthier state. This review summarizes current evidence on the role of polyphenols in periodontal therapy, highlighting mechanisms of action and recent advances aimed at improving their bioavailability and clinical applications.