Evaluation of different treatment methods against denture stomatitis: a randomized clinical study

Area of Science:

• Oral Medicine
• Mycology
• Pharmacognosy

Background:

• Denture stomatitis (DS) is a common oral condition, often caused by Candida species.
• Current treatments include antifungals like miconazole, but alternative therapies are sought.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of Uncaria tomentosa (cat's claw) gel as a treatment for denture stomatitis.
• To compare the effectiveness of cat's claw gel with miconazole and placebo.

Main Methods:

• A randomized clinical study involving 50 patients diagnosed with denture stomatitis.
• Participants received either 2% miconazole, placebo, or 2% Uncaria tomentosa gel.
• Clinical assessment of DS severity and mycological analysis (CFU/mL, fungal identification) were performed.

Main Results:

• All treatment groups showed a significant decrease in DS severity and Candida colony counts.
• Uncaria tomentosa gel demonstrated comparable efficacy to 2% miconazole.
• Candida albicans was the most frequently isolated species, followed by C. tropicalis, C. glabrata, and C. krusei.

Conclusions:

• Uncaria tomentosa gel is an effective topical treatment for denture stomatitis.
• It can be considered an effective adjuvant therapy for managing DS.
• The findings support the use of natural products in oral healthcare.