Melatonin in the oral cavity: physiological and pathological implications

Area of Science:

• Oral biology and medicine
• Endocrinology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Melatonin is a hormone known for its role in circadian rhythms and antioxidant properties.
• Its presence and function within the oral cavity have been investigated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and summarize the current understanding of melatonin's functions in the oral cavity.
• To explore the implications of melatonin for oral health and disease.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search was conducted using databases up to November 2013.
• Keywords included melatonin, oral tissues (gingiva, periodontium, alveolar bone), oral conditions (inflammation, herpes, xerostomia, cancer), and related substances.

Main Results:

• Salivary melatonin levels follow a circadian rhythm, peaking at night.
• Melatonin exerts both receptor-dependent and independent effects in oral cells, acting as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent.
• It is released into saliva and gingival fluid, potentially suppressing gingival inflammation, alveolar bone loss, herpes lesions, and oral cancer, while enhancing dental implant osseointegration.

Conclusions:

• Both naturally occurring (endogenous) and externally administered (exogenous) melatonin demonstrate beneficial effects on the oral cavity.
• Regular use of melatonin supplements or topical applications may improve oral health and reduce mucosal lesions.