Treatment of recurrent minor aphthous stomatitis using diode laser (940 nm).

Abstract

Background: The exact etiology of recurrent aphthous ulcers (RAUs) is unknown. The management of RAUs is not always straightforward. Ulcers in the mouth (recurrent aphthous stomatitis [RAS]) are very common and may vary in size from very small to very large.

Objective: To evaluate reduction in pain intensity and duration of pain relief, reduction in size of ulcer, and duration for healing of ulcer (healing time) in patients with RAS after application of Low-Level Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation therapy (LLLT) comparing with topical Anginovag spray medication and control group.

Materials and methods: A total of 21 individuals diagnosed as RAS were divided into three equal groups as follows: Group 1: Minor aphthous ulcer, which was treated by giving LLLT using Diode LASER; Group 2: Minor aphthous ulcer, which was treated by topical Anginovag spray medication.; Group 3: Minor aphthous ulcer, which was treated conservatively with motivation and follow-up.

Results: In this randomized, controlled, clinical study, LLLT using Diode LASER causes reduction in pain intensity due to RAUs, thereby reducing morbidity. There is also reduction in the diameter and healing time of the ulcer as compared to Anginovag spray medication and the control group.

Conclusion: Although various treatment modalities have been used and LLLT is not commonly used to treat aphthous ulcers, this study suggests that using LLLT would be a safe and effective treatment modality for RAUs patients.