Systemic treatment with alpha-tocopherol and/or sodium selenite decreases the progression of experimental periodontitis

Objective: To investigate the effects of sodium selenite (Se) and/or α-tocopherol (αT) applications on the alveolar bone loss (ABL), the number of gingival collagen fibers, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS)+ and CD95+ cell numbers, and serum cytokine concentrations in experimental periodontitis in rats. Materials and methods: Forty Sprague Dawley rats were divided into four groups of ten as follows: group A: Se group, group B: αT group, group C: Se and αT combined group, and group D: control group (intraperitoneal (IP) saline injection applied). Using the image analysis method in the connective tissue under the connective epithelium, the numbers of iNOS, CD95 positive cells, and collagen fibers were counted. ELISA kits were used to test the concentrations of serum interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and IL-4. Results: The combination of Se and αT (group C) suppressed ABL compared with the control group (group D) (P < 0.05). In group A (Se), the number of iNOS+ cells was smaller than in group D (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Se has been concluded to inhibit inflammation of the gum due to iNOS. Se and αT can have a remarkable important role in preventing alveolar bone loss, and particularly in combination. Clinical relevance: Se and/or αT application may be useful in preventing the destruction of periodontal tissue and treatment of periodontal disease.