An Evaluation of Different Treatments for Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis and Patient Perceptions: Nd:YAG Laser versus Medication


Tezel A., Kara C., Balkaya V., ORBAK R.

PHOTOMEDICINE AND LASER SURGERY, vol.27, no.1, pp.101-106, 2009 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 27 Issue: 1
  • Publication Date: 2009
  • Doi Number: 10.1089/pho.2008.2274
  • Journal Name: PHOTOMEDICINE AND LASER SURGERY
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
  • Page Numbers: pp.101-106
  • Ankara University Affiliated: No

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this randomized controlled clinical trial was to determine the anxiety levels of patients with recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) prior to therapy with the Nd:YAG laser or medication, and to compare the effects of these different treatment methods on the degree of post-treatment pain, discomfort, and functional complications (eating and speech) experienced. Materials and Methods: Twenty patients with RAS-related oral problems were included in the study. Levels of pre- and post- treatment pain and functional complications were assessed at patient visits on days 1, 4, and 7. Results: The results indicated that patients treated with the Nd: YAG laser had less post- treatment pain and fewer functional complications, and reported immediate relief of pain and faster healing (p < 0.05). However, only after 5 d was there a significant reduction in the pain levels of the patients treated with medication. Conclusion: Our results suggest that the Nd: YAG laser has better patient acceptance, shorter treatment time, and lower rates of pain and post- treatment adverse events among patients with RAS.