Omega 3 Fatty Acids as a Host Modulator in Chronic Patients: A Randomized, Double Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Clinical Study

INTRODUCTION: chronic periodontitis as an infectious disease resulting in inflammation within the supporting tissues of the teeth, progressive attachment loss, and bone loss. Omega-3 fatty acids (-3 FAs) have anti-inflammatory properties. In present study we aimed to evaluate the effect of dietary supplementation with -3 FAs as a host modulating agent in patients with chronic periodontitis. Methods: Sixty otherwise healthy subjects with moderate and severe chronic periodontitis were selected divided randomly in test group (TG) and control group (CG), this study was double blind. In both the group scaling and root planing is done in control group placebo is given while in test group omega -3 fatty acid tablet is given. Periodontal clinical parameters and serum C-reactive protein (CRP) levels were evaluated in all patients at baseline, a 6-week and 12- week period after treatment. Results: A significant reduction in the gingival index, pocket depth, and clinical attachment level was found in the TG compared to the CG at a 12-week period. However, no statistically significant changes in serum CRP levels were found. Conclusions: Dietary supplementation with -3 FAs may have potential benefits as a host modulatory agent in the management of chronic periodontitis.