Aloe vera vs chlorhexidine in preventing alveolar osteitis

Area of Science:

• Oral Surgery
• Pharmacology
• Dental Therapeutics

Background:

• Alveolar Osteitis (AO) is a painful post-extraction complication requiring prompt management.
• Chlorhexidine (CHX) is a standard antiseptic, while Aloe Vera offers a natural alternative with fewer side effects.
• Evaluating mouthwash efficacy is crucial for managing AO post-lower third molar surgery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effectiveness of Chlorhexidine (CHX), Aloe Vera, and normal saline mouthwashes in preventing Alveolar Osteitis (AO).
• To assess the impact of these mouthwashes on postoperative pain (VAS), trismus, and wound dehiscence.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 150 patients undergoing lower third molar surgery.
• Patients were assigned to three groups: CHX mouthwash, Aloe Vera mouthwash, or normal saline (placebo).
• Outcomes including AO incidence, trismus, VAS pain scores, and wound dehiscence were evaluated on postoperative days 2 and 7.

Main Results:

• No significant difference in AO incidence or trismus grading was observed between the groups (p > 0.05).
• Wound dehiscence showed a significant difference between groups (p = 0.013).
• Chlorhexidine (CHX) demonstrated superior pain reduction (VAS) by day 7 compared to Aloe Vera, and reduced wound dehiscence.

Conclusions:

• Both Chlorhexidine (CHX) and Aloe Vera mouthwashes were effective in reducing Alveolar Osteitis (AO) incidence post-surgery.
• Chlorhexidine (CHX) showed greater efficacy in managing postoperative pain and reducing wound dehiscence by the seventh day.
• Further research may explore optimal concentrations and application protocols for Aloe Vera in dental care.