Effect of caloric restriction on alveolar bone loss in rats

Aims: Recent research suggests an association between longevity, caloric restriction (CR) and reduction of chronic inflammatory diseases, such as periodontitis. Currently, the mechanisms related to the effects of CR are not yet fully understood. In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the effects of caloric restriction on alveolar bone loss (ABL) in Wistar rats with experimental periodontitis. Main methods: The impact of CR on biometric data, clinical periodontal parameters, serum biomarkers and biochemical parameters were also investigated. The experimental protocol lasted 24 weeks. The CR rats were fed for 12 weeks with 70% of the standard food compared to the animals with ad libitum diet. Experimental periodontitis was induced in Wistar rats during 15 days before the end of the experiment. The animals were divided into four experimental groups (n = 12 animals/group), according to the presence or absence of caloric restriction and ligature-induced periodontitis. Hemimandibles were used to assess ABL. Key findings: The groups with experimental periodontitis induction showed a significant decrease on alveolar bone loss in animals submitted to caloric restriction, in addition to attenuating gingival inflammation, demonstrated by the significant difference in gingival index. Biochemical and biometric data showed a significant reduction in the glycemic profile, body weight, adiposity index and abdominal circumference after caloric restriction. Caloric restriction did not significantly alter bone tissue biomarkers. Significance: According to the findings, caloric restriction reduced alveolar bone loss, glycemic profile and biometric parameters in rats with experimental periodontitis.