Effect of omega 3 fatty acids plus low dose aspirin as a host modulating agent in the treatment of periodontitis patients- A Systematic Review

Background and Objectives: Host Modulatory Therapy is a treatment modality for periodontal diseases. It aims at reducing the periodontal destruction and enhances the regenerative capacity of periodontal tissues. Various host modulating agents are used as an adjunct to scaling and root planing. Omega 3 Fatty acids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like Aspirin modify the activity of inflammatory mediators and exert anti-inflammatory effect. The objective of the systematic review was to evaluate the effect of Omega 3 Fatty acids plus low dose Aspirin as adjunct to mechanical debridement in reduction of pocket depth in patients with periodontitis. Methods: In this systematic review, Randomized controlled trials in subjects with periodontitis in age group of 25-70 years were considered. Follow up period ranged from 6 weeks to 6 months. A systematic review of literature was performed using Pubmed, PMC, Google scholar, EBSCO host databases. Studies concerning the use of Omega 3 Fatty acids plus low dose Aspirin as host modulating agent in periodontitis treatment were selected. A total 2650 of studies were selected through search strategy and 5 articles which attained the inclusion criteria have been included in present systematic review. Results: Oral supplementation of omega 3 fatty acids in combination of low dose Aspirin as adjunct to mechanical debridement reduces the pocket depth during the 6 weeks to 6 months follow up period. Limitations: There are limited studies which are available. Also there is lack of data evaluating the long term follow up of the intervention. Conclusion: Use of omega 3 fatty acids and low dose aspirin in periodontitis patients improves periodontal status but further long-term studies need to be conducted.