<p>The objective of the study was to evaluate the potential protective effect of naringenin against cadmium (Cd)-induced toxicity in human gingival cells. The safe dose of naringenin and the half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of Cd were defined using the methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) assay. Then four groups were assigned: group I: control (cells + media), group II: cells + Cd, group III: cells + naringenin, group IV: cells&#xa0; + Cd + naringenin. The cell viability was assessed by MTT assay. Lipid peroxidation (MDA), super oxide dismutase (SOD), and apoptosis by (Annexin V/PI) assay were measured. The ultrastructural changes in the gingival cells were observed by transmission electron microscopy. Cadmium decreased the viability of human gingival cells in a dose-dependent manner with an IC50 of 11.16&#xa0;μM. However, naringenin at a concentration of 50&#xa0;μM increased the cell viability significantly, but with higher concentrations the viability began to decrease. The exposure of the gingival cells to Cd significantly increased MDA levels and decreased the SOD. It also enhanced apoptosis in the gingival cells with subsequent ultrastructural changes such as cell blebs and nuclear fragmentation. The addition of naringenin improved the cell viability, decreased MDA, increased SOD, decreased cell apoptosis, and improved ultrastructural changes, suggesting a potential protective effect against cadmium toxicity in gingival cells. Naringenin has a potential protective effect against cadmium-induced toxicity in gingival cells.</p> Graphical abstract <p></p>