Gingival Crevicular Fluid Levels of Protein Carbonyl Following the Use of Lycopene in Chronic Periodontitis

Inclusion Criteria: * All subjects were free from any systemic diseases. * Subjects for group I and II were suffering from severe chronic periodontitis (Armitage et al., 1999). * Group III included subjects with clinically healthy periodontium. * All subjects were between 35-60 years old. * Both genders were included. * Subjects were able to return for follow up visits. * Subjects agreed to sign a written consent after the nature of the study was explained. Exclusion Criteria: * History of scaling and root planing or periodontal surgery \< 6 months prior to initiation of the study. * History of administration of antimicrobial drugs or over the counter antioxidants like Vit C, Vit B, β-carotene \< 6 months prior to the baseline examination. * Subjects who reported any side effects or drug allergies from antioxidants. * Subjects with mobile teeth, abscesses and defected restorations related to the affected sites. * Subjects with para-functional habits. * Pregnant and lactating females. * Smokers, alcoholic and drug abusers. * Prisoner. * Mentally retarded patients.