European Journal of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences

PHYTO-ANTIOXIDANTS: THE DENTAL PANACEA

*Dr. Shruti Monala, Dr. Shubhashini N., Dr. Geeta I. B.

ABSTRACT

Oxygen is essential for the existence of human beings. Yet, in contradiction, it is also involved in harmful reactions and therefore is a constant threat to the wellbeing. Most of the potentially adverse effects of oxygen is formation of free radicals that are molecules containing at least one unpaired electrons. The antioxidants are substances that have potential to neutralize the free radicals and are able to react at the different stages of free radical formation. They are available in both synthetic and natural forms. They are also naturally available in herbs, fruits and vegetables which are rich in Polyphenols, Flavonoids, Anthocyanin, Proanthocyanidin, Vitamin C etc. and have lesser side effects compared to that of synthetic compounds. Herbal compounds have Antimicrobial, Anti-inflammatory, Sedative and Anxiolytics agents. They can be used both in restorative and endodontic procedures.

Keywords: Oxygen, Free radicals, Natural antioxidants.