All analyses were completed using SAS program release 9.1 . Data were examined for normality using the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, and those that achieved normality were analysed using parametric methods. FMPS and FMBS measured before the beginning of each period of experimental mucositis in both groups were compared using the Wilcoxon test. For the other clinical parameters (PI, BoP, PPM, RCAL and PD), ANOVA two way/Tukey test was used to detect differences between groups and periods. Levels of osteo-immunoinflammatory markers between groups and among follow-ups were compared using the Wilcoxon and Friedman test, respectively. An experimental level of significance was determined at 5%.