Evaluation of Osteoprotegrin Concentration in the Saliva of Patients with Generalized Moderate Chronic Periodontitis

Periodontal disease is a chronic bacterial infection that affects the tissues supporting the teeth. Our effort in improving periodontal disease is to reduce destructive mediators. One of the Biomarkers is osteoprotegrin (OPG). OPG is a protein which prevents osteoclast activity. The aim of this study was evaluationof osteoprotegrin (OPG) concentration in saliva of patients with generalized moderate chronic periodontitis and comparing it with that of healthy individuals. This study was carried out on 30 patients (15 patients with chronic periodontitis and 15 patients as the control group) referred to Ahvaz Jundishapour dental school. Saliva samples were collected and examined by ELISA. The data were analyzed by t-test. Mean OPG coucentration in patients and control group were 117.63±84.13 mg/dl and 210.81±170.69 mg/dl respectively. The difference was not significant. It appears that OPG concentration in saliva cannot be used as a marker for the assessment of periodontal disease.