The problem of teeth loss as a result of periodontitis is growing continuously. In the study we aimed to show the correlation between the disease and lipid metabolism disorders. We performed morphological examinations of hard tissues of rats' periodontium in the course of experimental ligature-induced periodontitis and we demonstrated the destruction of alveolodental ligament. The following changes were observed: degenerative changes including necrosis within periodontium, progressive destruction of bone mass of alveolar process of the mandible in the region of inflammatory infiltration. Simultaneously, biochemical examinations of blood serum were performed revealing decrease of basic antioxidant enzymes activities: SOD, GSH-Px, GSH-R with simultaneous increase of MDA - the final product of lipid peroxidation.

Keywords: Rats, Lipid Peroxides, Antioxidants, morphology of periodontal tissues, experimental periodontitis