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A Rapid and Specific Microplate Assay for the Determination of Intra- and Extracellular Ascorbate in Cultured Cells
Published on: April 11, 2014
Periodontal health related to plasma ascorbic acid
M K Väänänen1, H A Markkanen, V J Tuovinen
1Department of Periodontology, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Kuopio, Finland.
Proceedings of the Finnish Dental Society. Suomen Hammaslaakariseuran Toimituksia
|January 1, 1993
Summary
Low vitamin C levels are linked to more severe periodontal disease. This study found individuals with lower ascorbic acid (AA) plasma levels had increased signs of gum disease compared to controls.
Area of Science:
- Oral Health
- Nutritional Science
- Periodontology
Background:
- The link between periodontal disease and vitamin C deficiency requires further elucidation.
- Ascorbic acid (AA) is crucial for tissue health and immune function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between plasma ascorbic acid levels and the severity of periodontal disease.
- To compare periodontal health in subjects with low versus adequate ascorbic acid intake.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study comparing 75 subjects with low plasma AA (< 25 mumol/l) to 75 controls (> 50 mumol/l).
- Dietary intake of AA was assessed, and clinical periodontal parameters were recorded (plaque, calculus, bleeding, pocket depth, recession).
- Examinations were conducted by a single dentist in a double-blind manner.
Main Results:
- Subjects with low plasma AA had significantly higher proportions of sites with bleeding on probing and probing pocket depth ≥ 4 mm.
- 60% of subjects with low AA and 37% of controls exhibited pathological pockets (≥ 4 mm).
- Only 5% of the low AA group and 18% of controls had healthy periodontal tissues.
Conclusions:
- Lower plasma ascorbic acid levels are associated with increased severity of periodontal disease.
- Adequate vitamin C intake may play a protective role in maintaining periodontal health.
- Further research is warranted to confirm the causal relationship and explore therapeutic interventions.
