Aloe vera vs chlorhexidine in preventing alveolar osteitis

Alveolar Osteitis (AO) is a common and painful complication following tooth extraction or surgical excision, necessitating early treatment to minimize costs, morbidity, and frequent dental visits. Chlorhexidine (CHX) is the most widely used antiseptic, while Aloe Vera, a natural herbal plant, is gaining popularity in dentistry due to its minimal side effects. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of normal saline, Aloe Vera, and chlorhexidine mouthwashes in reducing the incidence of AO after lower third molar surgery. In a randomized controlled trial, 150 patients were divided into three groups: Group 1 (Chlorhexidine Mouthwash), Group 2 (Aloe Vera Mouthwash), and Group 3 (Normal Saline, placebo). Postoperative assessments on the 2nd and 7th days measured Trismus Grading, VAS, Wound Dehiscence, and AO. The results showed no significant difference in the occurrence of AO and Trismus grading between groups (p = 0.031 and 0.78, respectively), but wound dehiscence significantly differed (p = 0.013). While the VAS score on the 2nd day showed no significant difference, by the 7th day, chlorhexidine demonstrated better pain reduction than Aloe Vera. Although both mouthwashes were effective in reducing AO, chlorhexidine was more effective in reducing wound dehiscence and pain by the 7th day post-surgery.