All processes in the body are under a perfect balance, any disturbance of this balance will lead to a diseased state. In the oral cavity inflammatory periodontal diseases are the most prevalent; the main culprits in the pathogenesis of this condition are free radicals and reactive oxygen species. These are unstable molecules which easily affect the soft and highly permeable oral mucous membrane by creating ‘oxidative stress’. Antioxidants stabilize the free radicals by donating one electron, thus body generally balances the harm of free radicals through antioxidants. Any disturbance in their equilibrium can prove detrimental. Oral cavity and systemic infections are linked, thus there is an increased risk of diabetes and other cardiovascular and metabolic disorders as a result of this disturbed equilibrium. Use of topical antioxidants should be encouraged by the dentists in management as well prophylaxis in patients of periodontal problems. 

Keywords: Free Radicals; Oxidative Stress; Antioxidants.